Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
THE Presidential Internet Scheme has officially been launched in Manicaland, bringing digital opportunities and renewed educational prospects to rural learners.
Munyoro Secondary School in Chimanimani West was the first beneficiary of this initiative.
Addressing attendees at the Presidential victory celebrations held at the school last Saturday, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera said Chitora Secondary School in Mutare South will receive 10 computers and an internet kit, connecting the school to high-speed internet.
Minister Mavetera said the initiative, spearheaded by President Mnangagwa, aims to bridge the rural-urban digital divide, and ensure that no community is left behind in the technological revolution.
“What we are witnessing today is a tangible manifestation of President Mnangagwa’s vision for an inclusive, connected Zimbabwe. Through the Presidential Internet Scheme, we are ensuring that a child in Chimanimani has the same digital access and opportunities as a child in Harare,” she said.
Minister Mavetera said the provision of internet connectivity and digital equipment to rural schools will enable learners to access online educational resources, participate in virtual learning, and develop essential ICT skills from an early age.
“Digitalisation begins with access, and access begins with leadership. That is precisely what His Excellency, President Mnangagwa is providing. These 10 computers and the internet kit are not merely gadgets; they are tools of empowerment. They will transform the way learners study, teachers teach, and communities engage with the rest of the world,” she said.
Minister Mavetera said her ministry is collaborating with partners to ensure that every administrative ward in Zimbabwe becomes digitally active through the installation of ICT infrastructure and internet access points.
Furthermore, post offices in rural centres will be transformed into community information hubs, providing villagers with access to e-Government services and digital tools for business, farming, and learning.
“We are digitalising Zimbabwe one post at a time. Every ward matters. Every school matters. This is not a dream – it is already happening. From Chimanimani to Tsholotsho, from Gokwe to Mutoko, the digital train has left the station, and no one will be left behind,” she said.
Minister Mavetera announced that the computers and internet equipment will be delivered to the school in the coming days, marking the first phase of the scheme’s rollout in Manicaland.
Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa commended the initiative, saying it will have a lasting impact on rural education, particularly for the girl child.
“As policymakers, we recognise the importance of empowering our girls with the tools to succeed in a competitive world. The internet serves as a multifaceted resource, offering a classroom, library, and career guidance all in one. Through this initiative, President Mnangagwa is transforming the future of our daughters,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
She encouraged the learners, particularly girls, to be ambitious and draw inspiration from women in positions of power, such as Minister Mavetera.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm by Chitora Secondary School learners, who described the development as a life-changing opportunity.
Enifa Mawanza, a Form Three learner, expressed her gratitude, saying the gesture was a dream come true to many rural learners like her.
“We are incredibly thankful to Minister Mavetera for remembering us. This is something we never imagined would happen at our school. I am eager to learn how to use a computer and explore the internet, which will undoubtedly enhance our studies and prepare us for our futures,” she said.
Farai Dandira, another Form 3 learner, said the development was a motivating factor to work harder.
“We are thrilled to be receiving computers and gaining internet access. The internet will broaden our perspectives, introducing us to the world beyond our village. It validates our dreams and demonstrates that people genuinely care about our education,” he said.
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