Zim schools to introduce anti-sanctions curriculum, from ECD

HARARE - Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) is taking a bold step to educate Zimbabwean children about the impact of economic sanctions on their country, with preparations to engage critical stakeholders and authorities already at an advanced stage for (initial and pilot) poverty lessons to start early next year (2026).

The organisation plans to introduce an anti-sanctions curriculum in primary schools, starting from early childhood development level.

Speaking in Harare during initial stakeholders engagement meeting and awareness event this Friday,
CAES founding leader, Martin Zharare said his organisation aims to empower young Zimbabweans with knowledge about the effects of sanctions on their nation's economy and development.

"By incorporating this curriculum, learners and students will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding economic sanctions and their role in shaping the country's future," Zharare said.

"We will engage with other relevant authorities, including the parent or line Ministries and critical stakeholders to ensure that anti-sanctions curriculum should be embraced by all schools throughout the country from early childhood development level up to tertiary and vocational institutions," Zharare added.

The key objectives in embracing this, CAES said that this seeks to educate and inform learners and students so that they will learn about the history and impact of economic sanctions on Zimbabwe, including the humanitarian consequences.

Zharare added that this will also promote critical thinking amongst learners and students since the curriculum will encourage (critical thinking) analysis of the effects of sanctions on different sectors, such as healthcare and education.

This will also foster national unity. By sharing a common understanding of the issue, CAES hopes to unite Zimbabweans across different backgrounds and age groups.

Quizzed on its implementation, Zharare said the curriculum will be designed to cater for various age groups within primary schools where they will be engaged with topics such as the history of sanctions.

"This involve understanding the reasons behind the imposition of sanctions and their evolution over time. Also on economic impacts where they will be analysing the effects of sanctions on Zimbabwe's economy, including trade barriers and limited access to international credit," Zharare added.

The CAES also added that there are humanitarian consequences associated with the anti-sanctions curriculum.

"This involve exploring the impact of sanctions on public services, such as healthcare and education, with expected outcomes (through introduction this curriculum), CAES hopes to raise and increase awareness among young Zimbabweans about the impact of economic sanctions," he added.

Zharare added that his organisation is build a movement that fosters a sense of unity and purpose among citizens, encouraging them to demand action from policymakers.

It also provide a platform for students to engage with policymakers (inform policy) and contribute to informed decision-making.

As CAES embarks on this initiative, Zharare said it is clear that educating the next generation about economic sanctions will be crucial in shaping Zimbabwe's future, and by empowering young minds with knowledge and critical thinking skills, CAES aims to create a more informed and engaged citizenry.