Zimbabwe to roll out 1 laptop per child initiative to bridge digital divide

The Government of Zimbabwe is advancing efforts to enhance digital learning by rolling out the One Laptop Per Child initiative and providing annual training in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital literacy to more than 10,000 teachers and lecturers.

Announcing these plans during a recent Post Cabinet Media Briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr. Jenfan Muswere emphasized the government's commitment to bridging the digital divide between rural and urban learners through strategic partnerships.

"As a way forward, the Government of Zimbabwe will partner with the Digital Schools and Global Skilling Academies of the United Arab Emirates to harness the potential of solar energy, digital education, skills development, and public-private community partnerships, to drive inclusive growth in Zimbabwe's rural communities," Dr. Muswere said. He also noted that Zimbabwe will further strengthen Competence-Based Education and Training reforms.

The initiative aims to provide affordable digital learning tools, empowering students with skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The One Laptop Per Child programme will be leveraged through a subsidized model to promote inclusivity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.

"More than 10,000 teachers and lecturers will receive annual training in artificial intelligence and digital literacy. This strategic partnership bridges the gap between urban and rural learners," Dr. Muswere added.

On regional integration, Dr. Muswere reaffirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to joining the Trans-Kalahari Corridor, a key transport and trade route linking Zimbabwe, Namibia, and other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. This will boost trade harmonization and support industrialization efforts in the region.

"The Government commits to ensuring that the Walvis Bay Dry Port becomes fully operational. Zimbabwe will also join the Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor connecting Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to enhance regional trade and integration," Dr. Muswere said.

The government's focus on digital education and regional trade integration comes as Zimbabwe hosted major events including the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas Conference and Summit. On the sidelines of this summit, the country also launched its Carbon Trading Framework and Carbon Registry, initiatives which cabinet noted with interest.

This multi-faceted approach signals Zimbabwe's resolve to foster inclusive growth, technological advancement, and stronger regional partnerships.