Zimbabwe has taken another significant step towards modernising its education system with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art smart classroom at Chaplin High School in Gweru, reinforcing Government’s drive to prepare learners for the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The newly commissioned facility is equipped with interactive smart boards, reliable internet connectivity and advanced digital learning technologies that are expected to transform classroom experiences by promoting interactive teaching, research and collaborative learning.
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube said the investment was aligned with the country’s long-term development agenda and demonstrated Government’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy.
“Today’s commissioning dovetails with the National Development Strategy 2 Pillar on Science, Technology, Digital Innovation and Human Capital Development. It also advances Heritage-Based Education 5.0, which is building a skilled, innovative and globally competitive workforce as Zimbabwe progresses towards Vision 2030,” he said.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s ongoing digital transformation programme, which seeks to expand information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in schools while advancing Heritage-Based Education 5.0. The programme is designed to nurture innovation, creativity and critical thinking among learners, equipping them with practical skills needed in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Midlands Provincial Education Director Jameson Machimbira said the province was making steady progress towards increasing ICT access in schools as part of efforts to improve education standards.
“Our target is to achieve 80 percent ICT connectivity across schools in Midlands Province through digital classrooms and learning devices. This supports Heritage-Based Education 5.0 by promoting innovation, research and problem-solving skills that are critical for national development,” he said.
Students at Chaplin High School welcomed the development, describing it as a milestone that will broaden learning opportunities and improve their competitiveness.
A learner said the smart classroom would enable students to access global educational resources and strengthen their digital skills.
“This is a welcome development because technology has made the world a global village. We can now research, collaborate and compete with learners anywhere in the world, making us more marketable in the future,” the learner said.
The commissioning of the smart classroom reflects growing collaboration between Government and development partners in modernising education. Through sustained investment in digital infrastructure, rural electrification and ICT connectivity, Zimbabwe continues to transform classrooms into centres of innovation, ensuring learners acquire the technological skills and knowledge required to drive industrialisation, economic growth and the successful attainment of Vision 2030.
