Mthabisi Tshuma recently in Bulilima
ESTABLISHED in 1924 Nyabane Primary School in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South province, has been given a lifeline after receiving new Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment in form of computers.
The donation is part of a consignment of computers donated by President Mnangagwa during the Thekwane Missionary Centenary Celebrations courtesy of the telecommunications regulator Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz).
This has enabled the school to set up a computer laboratory for the first time since its existence.
ICT, Postal and Courier Services Deputy Minister, Dingumuzi Phuti, officially handed over the 10 computers recently, bringing joy among pupils, teachers and parents.
The handover event coincided with the school’s speech and prize giving day where pupils who excelled academically and in sport were given certificates and prizes while early childhood development (ECD B) pupils also graduated in preparation for Grade One next year.
In his remarks Deputy Minister Phuti said the donation was fulfilling the promises made in the run-up to the 2023 harmonised elections.
“When I was campaigning to be Member of Parliament for Bulilima Constituency in 2023 I made a promise that I will uplift the community of Bulilima,” he said.
“Taking note of that I highlighted that we need to upgrade Nyabane Primary School. This, I said, should be through equipping the school with a computer laboratory as it meets the standards given the availability of electricity.
“Today I am here to hand over the computers, which donation was made possible by our listening President Emmerson Mnangagwa.”
Deputy Minister Phuti said it was high time that rural schools come of age with time. He took the opportunity to also teach learners on what a computer is and the different types.
Nyabane Primary School head Ms Nomalanga Nyoni said taking note of the new curriculum, this is a major boost for them.
“The computers will go a long way in improving computer literacy of our learners since ICT is now an examinable learning area. Computers facilitate research hence it will be now easy for the learners to research widely,” she said.
“They prepare our learners for digital citizenship, thus, developing essential skills for the digital age. It will also enhance the learning experience making education effective, efficient and enjoyable,” said Ms Nyoni.
She said they were optimistic the event will bring about change to the school’s development and applauded the Second Republic for opening a new page in the school’s journey.
“We felt grateful for the opportunity to bring people together and celebrate excellency, promoting school spirit and community engagement. We felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as we received the computers,” said Ms Nyoni.-@mthabisi_mthire