The ManicaPost
Post Reporter
AS efforts to improve access to and usage of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in Manicaland Province’s rural communities continue, Chigombwe Primary School yesterday received ICT equipment for pupils’ use.
The development, which saw the school getting a computer laboratory furnished with 15 computers and accessories, has been hailed as a move in the right direction in enhancing ICT infrastructure development at rural learning institutions.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Manicaland Provincial Education Director, Mr Edward Shumba hailed the development partner – Plan Zimbabwe – for complementing Government’s efforts in bridging the digital divide between rural schools and their urban counterparts.
Mr Shumba urged the school and local community to ensure safety of the ICT equipment to enable the pupils to benefit thoroughly .
“This is a welcome development in the efforts to promote ICT learning at the school. It will go a long way in benefiting the pupils as this has become an important part of the curriculum,” said Mr Shumba.
Plan Zimbabwe programmes manager, Mr Willard Nengomasha said they were looking forward to having more schools in the province benefit from a similar gesture.
“We are committed to seeing rural schools get access to ICT equipment and infrastructure required in their pupils’ learning. The idea is to make a positive difference in rural communities so that they do not lag behind in the ICT drive.
“This is a pilot project and we will replicate it at other schools in Manicaland as part of our broader objective,” said Mr Nengomasha.
A digital economy hinging on improved ICT access, usage, infrastructure development and maintenance forms one of the key pillars of Government’s National Development Strategy (NDS1).
