ECOZI Engages Education Minister Over State Of Education In The Country

By Lloyd Mwale in Kadoma

As the saying goes, “education is the key to success”. In Zimbabwe, education has always been highly valued and considered a fundamental right for all citizens. However, in recent years, the education sector has faced numerous challenges that have hindered its growth and progress.

In an effort to address these issues and propose solutions from a civic society perspective, the Education Coalition of Zimbabwe (ECOZI) recently engaged with the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon Torerai Moyo (pictured), in a one-day workshop held at Kadoma Hotel and Conference Centre.The workshop, which was attended by participants from some teachers’ unions drawn from across the country affiliated to ECOZI, aimed to bring to light the challenges facing the sector and propose solutions that can help improve the quality of education in Zimbabwe.

The tone of the workshop was of utmost concern and determination, as participants were united in their efforts to bring about positive change in the education sector.

One of the main challenges highlighted at the workshop was the issue of teacher remuneration. Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation, yet their salaries have not been commensurate with the value of their work.

The Education Coalition of Zimbabwe stressed the need for the government to prioritize the well-being of teachers and improve their working conditions in order to attract and retain qualified educators.

Another pressing issue faced by the education sector is the lack of adequate infrastructure. Many schools are in a state of disrepair, with dilapidated buildings and a lack of essential facilities such as classrooms, libraries, and laboratories. This has a direct impact on the quality of education that students receive and hinders their academic progress.

The Education Coalition of Zimbabwe urged the government to invest in the renovation and construction of school buildings to provide a conducive learning environment for students.
In addition to physical infrastructure, the workshop also highlighted the importance of addressing social and psychological issues affecting teachers.

The current economic climate in Zimbabwe has had a negative impact on the mental health of teachers, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The Education Coalition of Zimbabwe emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the well-being of teachers and provide them with access to mental health resources.

Recruitment is another challenge that was brought to the forefront during the workshop. The current recruitment system for teachers is often perceived as biased and lacking transparency. The Education Coalition of Zimbabwe urged the government to review the recruitment process and ensure that it is fair and open to all qualified candidates.

Addressing the participants, Hon Moyo, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education welcomed the platform as it reflected on the achievements and proffers solutions found in the education sector.

“I would like to thank ECOZI for coming up with the platform for us to reflect on achievements and to proffer solutions in our education sector from a civic society perspective.
The civic society perspective on our education sector is equally compelling and invaluable insight from our development partners, including Nango, Voices of Educators and education practitioners has greatly enriched our understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

“As government we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that every child in Zimbabwe has access to quality, inclusive and relevant education,our priorities allign closely with the work of Ecozi, we’re actively implementing heritage-based curriculum, enhancing teachers’ training to ensure education equips our children for the demands of the 21st century.”

The ministernsaid the minstry recently launched an investment of US$8.7 million from POS Bank, aimed at powering and connecting schools through solar energy and Starlink kits. The program is designed to enhance education by integrating digital into teaching and learning environment.

Another emphasis is on teachers online training particularly in Artificial Intelligence teaching methods in collaboration with one university in Russia.

“To-date we’ve successfully completed online training of 400 teachers with a target of training 2000 by the end of 2025, and this program exposes the teacher to innovative teaching techniques and fosters a modern learning environment that prepares the child for the digital age,” Moyo said.

“Your contributions from your Quality and Transformation Education Committee provides invaluable framework and feedback in partnership opportunities. Such engagements are essential for building partnership necessary to transform our education sector.

“The progress you have made since the last engagement in 2023 is commendable, your thematic committees focusing on Gender and Equality, Inclusive Education, Education Financing, Education in Emergency, Quality and Transformation Education and Foundation Learning are directly our priorities outlined in our National Education Sector Strategic Plan. Your advocacy, research, monitoring and community mobilisation efforts have not gone unnoticed as they compliment and strengthen government initiatives in significant ways,” he said.

The workshop also shed light on the lack of sports provision in schools. In recent years, there has been a decline in the sports programs offered in schools, leading to a decrease in physical activity among students. The Education Coalition of Zimbabwe stressed the importance of including sports in the curriculum as it not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also teaches important life skills such as teamwork and discipline.