Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
GOVERNMENT has commended Zimpapers for supporting the implementation of the Heritage‑Based Curriculum through the successful hosting of the annual schools expo that brought together institutions of higher and tertiary learning, employers and hundreds of high‑school learners to bridge the gap between the classroom and career pathways.
Chief Provincial Education Director, Mr Richard Gabaza praised Zimpapers for partnering Government in promoting informed career choices among learners and the implementation of the Heritage‑Based Curriculum.
“As Government, we applaud Zimpapers for organising this platform, which directly supports the Heritage‑Based Curriculum that we are implementing as a ministry. We are truly grateful to Zimpapers and its partners for ensuring that learners access vital information on career choices. Such platforms empower learners to make informed decisions and widen their scope of opportunities,” he said, adding that the Government hopes similar initiatives can be expanded to other districts across Manicaland Province.
“It is our sincere appeal that, if resources permit, this initiative be cascaded to all seven districts so that every learner has access to this knowledge. Some learners complete their studies with good passes, but remain uncertain about the next step. Platforms like this help unlock doors and illuminate possibilities.
“This is not just education, but equitable, inclusive and quality education. We are implementing the Heritage‑Based Curriculum, which recognises that learners have different aptitudes and pathways. Some proceed to Advanced Level and university, while others pursue technical and vocational training at polytechnics and teachers’ colleges. All these pathways are equally important,” said Mr Gabaza, adding that education should not end at academic instruction alone.
“It is not enough for us to educate a learner and then release them upon completion of academic studies without direction. We must equip them with practical skills, knowledge of professions and exposure to opportunities available in the country. That is why career guidance and counselling are critical components of our system,” he said.
The expo featured universities, polytechnics, teachers’ colleges and vocational training centres showcasing programmes ranging from engineering and agriculture to teaching, entrepreneurship and social sciences.
Learners moved from stand to stand, interacting with exhibitors and collecting brochures detailing entry requirements and career prospects.
Provincial employment officer in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Ms Norah Torto stressed the importance of career guidance in shaping the country’s workforce.
“We are gathered here for a Careers Expo targeting learners, mostly from Mutare District, and we are pleased to see the strong participation. Career guidance plays a critical role in the life of a learner. It assists them in making informed career decisions by gathering information from training institutions, employers and various organisations,” said Ms Torto.
She said such interactions help learners understand labour‑market trends and national development priorities.
“When learners engage directly with institutions and employers, they gain insight into the skills that are in demand. This enables them to align their subject choices and training pathways with opportunities available in the economy,” she said.
Ms Torto also commended teachers for supporting the initiative.
Diamond FM station manager, Mr Jabulani Mangezi said Zimpapers was proud to complement Government efforts in promoting heritage‑based learning.
“The organisation is thrilled to host the event and bring together the best of Manicaland’s talent and ambition. As Zimpapers, we believe our role goes beyond news. We are part of the community, and we have a responsibility to contribute to national development. At Zimpapers, we believe in empowering our youth with knowledge and opportunities. That is why we brought together top institutions and industry experts to help you shape your future. Engage, learn, and let your dreams take flight,” he said, adding that the expo was designed to demystify career choices and expose learners to diverse opportunities.
For the learners, the event was both informative and inspiring.
Victoria Chitakunye, a learner at Ezekiel Guti Academy, said the expo helped clarify her ambitions.
“I have always wanted to pursue engineering, but I did not know the exact entry requirements or which institutions offer the best programmes. After speaking to representatives here, I now understand the subjects I need to focus on and the different specialisations available,” she said.
Another learner, Makanaka Dhliwayo from St Mary’s High School, described the experience as eye‑opening.
