ICTs boost for Guruve schools

EFFORTS to promote e-learning across the country got a major boost after Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera commissioned computer laboratories at three secondary schools in Guruve District last week.

Horseshoe Secondary, Mushoshoma High and Magaya Secondary each received 30 laptops, a multi-purpose printer and a projector for ICT labs.

The ICT labs are part of the programme of setting up an ICT lab in every school being done by Government through the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz).

Speaking at the commissioning of the labs, Minister Mavetera said the programme was in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, in bridging the digital gap.

“Every learner should have access to digital technology in line with President Mnangagwa’s vision of attaining a digital economy by 2030,” she said.

“Our vision as Government is that all learners should have access to computers and the internet, hence these ICT labs. These computers are not for decoration and they must be put to good use. We also want everyone to have access to computers and let us make sure that we keep them safe.”

Minister Mavetera said yesterday’s commissioning of the ICT labs was critical in the advancement of a digital economy.

Horseshoe Secondary School head Mrs Regina Musindo said the establishment of a computer lab was long overdue as ICT was one of the major requirements of the new curriculum.

“We are happy with this ICT programme because it will make the learners get equipped with ICT skills,” she said. “The learners will have access to the internet and this will enhance their studies through access to information.

“The learners must have technological skills as part of the new curriculum requirements and the lab will go a long way in enhancing education at the school. The community is also going to benefit from these computers.”

Guruve North Ward 1 Councillor Tsitsi Moyo said she was happy that schools in her ward had been empowered by the Government.

“I am happy that our schools have received computers and our learners are going to be like those in urban areas. The schools did not have computer labs and the establishment of these ICT labs and internet services will enhance their education,” said Clr Moyo.

Learners at the schools said they were happy with the launch of ICT labs, saying they will enhance their learning through access to information.

A Form 3 learner, Sharlene Vharitu, said: “I am happy that we have received computers and this will make us equal to learners in urban areas. This will also help us in our studies. I would like to thank the Government for commissioning this lab because it will enhance our studies.”

Another learner, Ryan Dzvange, said: “The computers will help us in our research and improve our education.”