Zimbabwe’s Education System Overcomes Challenges with Government Investments
As learners in Zimbabwe return to school this week, the country’s education system remains resilient despite ongoing challenges. Last year, the school calendar ran seamlessly, providing a much-needed relief after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors in previous years.
One notable achievement in 2023 was the successful prevention of leaked question papers during public exams by the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council. This commendable effort countered the alarming regularity of such illegal practices, which threatened to undermine the integrity of the local education system.
The significance of the education sector cannot be overstated in Zimbabwe’s development under the Second Republic. It is responsible for nurturing the human resources that will drive the country’s agenda for progress. Over the years, the education system has produced highly capable individuals in various disciplines, including blue- and white-collar workers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and academics. Many Zimbabweans have excelled both at home and abroad, holding prominent positions in reputable institutions worldwide.
The achievements of Zimbabweans like James Manyika, who has made a mark in the field of artificial intelligence, and Ralph Mupita, who heads the multinational telecommunications company MTN Group, reflect the positive impact of the country’s education system.
Since gaining independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has consistently invested in the education sector. The government recognizes the central role of human resources in achieving its ambitious goal of establishing a prosperous, highly industrialized, and modernized state by 2030. In the 2024 National Budget, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education received the largest allocation of $8 trillion to ensure quality education and improved access for children. A significant portion of the funds is dedicated to teaching and learning materials, as well as teacher training in primary and secondary education.
The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development also received a substantial allocation of $2.3 trillion. These investments underscore the government’s commitment to producing not only doctors, engineers, and scientists but also innovators, entrepreneurs, and academics who can contribute to the country’s development.
Despite these efforts by the government, the education sector still faces challenges due to misconduct. Some teachers persist in conducting unauthorized extra lessons, pressuring parents into paying for additional attention to their children. This practice creates an unfair divide between paying and non-paying learners, potentially harming the educational experience of those who cannot afford these extra fees. Additionally, some schools engage in exploitative behavior by requiring students to purchase unnecessary items unrelated to their studies, solely for the purpose of extracting money from them.
These negative practices undermine the progress made in Zimbabwe’s education system over the past four decades. It is crucial for the government to take decisive action to eradicate these issues and protect the integrity of the education system. Merely issuing warnings is insufficient; concrete steps must be taken to address these challenges.
Zimbabwe’s education system is highly regarded globally and has produced exceptional individuals who contribute to society. The achievements of its people, despite obstacles placed by adversarial countries, stand as a testament to their intellect, talent, dedication, and determination. As schools reopen, it is imperative to safeguard the gains made in the education sector, ensuring equal opportunities for all learners.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s education system continues to thrive amidst challenges, thanks to the government’s investments. The commitment to quality education and the development of human resources align with the country’s vision for a prosperous future. However, it is essential to address misconduct within the sector to preserve the integrity that makes Zimbabwe’s education system a source of pride.
