Zimbabwe begins rollout of ICT devices to rural schools

The Government will begin distributing information and communication technology (ICT) devices to disadvantaged rural schools from next week, starting with Manicaland before moving to Matabeleland South, as part of efforts to promote blended teaching and learning.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Professor Torerai Moyo said the rollout comes ahead of schools reopening on January 13 and is aimed at narrowing the gap between rural and urban learners.

Speaking at the handover of ICT equipment by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) at the United Nations Warehouse, Prof Moyo said the initiative marked a major step in transforming Zimbabwe's education system.

"This ceremony marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Zimbabwe's education system, particularly for disadvantaged rural schools in Manicaland and Matabeleland South provinces," he said.

UNICEF handed over 815 laptops, 708 projectors and 2 112 tablets to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.

"The handover of these devices is not merely a logistical exercise; it is a strategic investment in the future of our children and the nation as a whole," Prof Moyo said.

He said the programme aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's vision of modernisation, innovation and inclusive development, as Zimbabwe works towards attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030.

The devices will be deployed across seven districts to support 113 disadvantaged, solar-powered schools. In Manicaland, the beneficiary districts are Buhera, Chipinge and Nyanga, while in Matabeleland South the programme will cover Beitbridge, Gwanda, Matobo and Insiza. Prof Moyo said the prior installation of solar infrastructure was critical to ensure the effective use of the equipment.

Most of the beneficiary schools are located in remote and underserved communities.

He said the devices would enhance teaching and learning through access to digital content, interactive instruction and offline learning platforms.

"The tablets will enhance learner access to digital content and interactive learning. The laptops will strengthen teacher preparation, assessment, school administration and content development, while the projectors will support whole-class digital instruction," Prof Moyo said.

"This is how we democratise access to quality education."

The rollout is part of the Government's broader e-learning initiative, which includes the implementation of the heritage-based curriculum and the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas.

Last year, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said Government had approved a Starlink licensing policy to strengthen the national e-learning programme and ensure affordable broadband connectivity for remote schools.

UNICEF acting representative Mr Fiachra Mcasey said the ICT devices would be complemented by teacher training programmes on ICT literacy and pedagogical integration, scheduled for February and March.

"To ensure measurable impact, pre- and post-training assessments for both teachers and learners will be conducted to track improvements in digital skills and effective use of technology," Mcasey said.

He added that the devices would be securely packaged, recorded in asset registers and distributed directly to beneficiary schools from next week.

Meanwhile, the Government has issued a stern warning to school heads engaging in corrupt practices, including soliciting bribes for school placements or forcing parents to buy uniforms from designated shops.

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said school heads found guilty of such conduct would face disciplinary action.

Ministry spokesperson Mr Taungana Ndoro called on parents and guardians to report such cases, warning that those involved risk dismissal or imprisonment under the Public Service Regulations.

"These are very serious charges that may warrant dismissal and or imprisonment," Ndoro said.

He clarified that private schools are also subject to the law, as they are registered and regulated under the Education Act.

Ndoro also reiterated that parents are free to buy school uniforms from any outlet of their choice, as long as they meet school specifications.

On school fees, Government warned against unilateral increases, stressing that schools must follow due process, including consulting parents, meeting quorum requirements and obtaining ministry approval.

"No school will increase fees without the permanent secretary knowing," Ndoro said, adding that any head who violates the procedure will have committed an offence.