Digital Skills Boost for Rural Schools as 500+ Teachers and Learners Receive ICT Training
More than 500 rural teachers and learners across Zimbabwe have undergone vital Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training under the DigSTEinZ initiative, a national project designed to digitally transform the country’s education sector.
Spearheaded by the Education Coalition of Zimbabwe (ECOZI), the programme is driving inclusive access to digital tools, capacity-building for educators and students, and aligning policies that support the shift toward tech-enabled education.
The project, themed “Generation Digital! – Supporting Digital Skills for the Next Generation,” prioritizes strengthening digital literacy in underserved communities.
A baseline study was carried out to assess ICT infrastructure and usage in targeted districts, and was officially validated by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) as an accurate reflection of current conditions in schools.
“We are incredibly proud of the progress we have made. We delivered a two-day training programme for 180 teachers, School Development Committee members, and school heads across four districts,” said ECOZI Projects Officer Mutsa Mvududu.
In addition, 344 students participated in one-day workshops focused on essential digital competencies and online safety education.
Community engagement formed a core part of the rollout.
Four district-based public dialogues reached 450 participants—including parents, guardians, and local stakeholders fostering understanding of the importance of digital transformation in classrooms.
According to the Herald, outreach efforts also included awareness roadshows, media engagements and local conversations to raise visibility on the initiative’s goals.
Despite the positive strides, ECOZI acknowledged persistent challenges affecting rural schools.
These include unreliable internet connectivity, recurring power outages, and a shortage of digital devices such as computers and tablets for learners and educators.
Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Tatenda Mavetera commended ECOZI’s work, noting the role of partnerships in closing the digital gap.
“Our vision for a digitally empowered Zimbabwe hinges on collaborative initiatives that address connectivity and access.
“We are actively working on policies and infrastructure development to ensure that every student and teacher, regardless of their location, has the tools they need to thrive in the digital age,” she said.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader goal of enhancing learning experiences through technology.
“The work of the DigSTEinZ project directly aligns with our national educational goals, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to scale up these efforts and ensure that digital literacy becomes a cornerstone of our curriculum,” he said.
Looking ahead, the DigSTEinZ project will continue to push for harmonisation of national ICT and e-learning policies, maintain awareness campaigns in schools and communities, and provide refresher training for teachers.
