By Rex Mphisa
THE Ministry Of Primary and Secondary Education says it will seek industrial partners for collaborations with schools to enhance hands-on education and innovation for learners.
The ministry also said the Government has made arrangements with the Russian Government which fund and dispatch Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) tutors to train both learners and teachers to improve the country’s education in that area.
Speaking during the commissioning of Oakleigh House High School in Beitbridge which has been renewed with state of the art facilities Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo said the country is focused on STEM and had engaged Russia to assist.
“The Russian Government will pay its teachers who will come to assist us in that area. We need to improved our learners in the direction of STEM. In February i will also travel to that country and want this province to find a teacher I will take for training in STEM,” he said.
He said he was impressed by the facilities including the modern laboratory at Oakleigh where directors had partnered Government’s vision of an upper middle class economy by 2030.
“I am very excited to be here. I am very happy to be commissioning this vision and want to thank Mr and Mrs Musakwa for this. I am excited,” he said.
“The state-of-the-art buildings, swimming pool, and sports facilities are a testament to the commitment of the school’s management to providing holistic education aptly themed “The Apex of Achievement.” Indeed, when one looks around at the magnificent structures and the vibrant learning community gathered here, one cannot help but agree that this institution has truly reached the apex of achievement in educational excellence, and I commend the school’s efforts in creating a vibrant learning institution.”
“The modern facilities at Oakleigh House School will also play a crucial role in delivering our Heritage Based Curriculum 5.0, which emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The facilities will provide students with a conducive learning environment that fosters creativity, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity. By integrating these modern facilities with Heritage based Curriculum 5.0, Oakleigh House School is setting a new standard for education in our country, one that prioritizes innovation, creativity, and academic excellence.”
He said the commissioning of Oakleigh House School marked a crucial milestone in implementing the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) seeking to cultivate a skilled and knowledgeable population.
The state-of-the-art facilities will enable Oakleigh House School to produce graduates who are equipped with the skills and competencies required to drive our nation’s development agenda.
“Specifically, the well-equipped classrooms will support the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while the sports facilities will foster teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills – all essential attributes for contributing to our nation’s growth and prosperity.
By investing in education infrastructure, we are investing in the future of our nation, and institutions like Oakleigh House School will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators,” Moyo told close to 1 000 people including businessmen, students, government officials, teachers and parents.
He said his ministry recognised the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in bridging the infrastructure deficit in our schools.
Through PPPs, he said, the country can leverage private sector expertise and resources to supplement government efforts in providing quality education.
“Our government is committed to constructing 200 new schools this year, while also adopting an open-door policy for private players to regularize their operations. This collaborative approach enables us to accelerate progress in education development, increase access to quality, equitable, relevant and inclusive education, and ultimately improve learning outcomes for our children.”
He remarked on the school’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of dedication and hard work.
“From its humble beginnings in 2009 as a primary school, it has grown from strength to strength, boldly expanding into a high school in 2022. I am pleased to note that the school is not only fully registered with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education but also a recognized ZIMSEC examination center.
“These indicators demonstrate Oakleigh House’s commitment to operating within the highest standards of accountability and credibility, and I encourage all institutions to follow suit. The school’s growth and achievements serve as an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to continued partnership and collaboration with institutions like Oakleigh House,” he said.
He said the school’s innovative approach to education is truly commendable, particularly in its embrace of vocational training skills through income-generating projects.
By engaging learners in practical activities such as poultry, piggery, fisheries, and gardening, the school is equipping them with life skills that foster self-reliance and entrepreneurship, he said.
“These projects not only complement academic learning but also empower learners to become productive citizens, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030 and the aspirations of National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
I applaud them for producing well-rounded learners who are academically capable, practically skilled, and patriotic, with a strong sense of community and national pride.
Other schools should indeed emulate this exemplary model, which promises a brighter future for Zimbabwe.”
Moyo said responsible authorities and board members of Oakleigh House School had demonstrated visionary leadership in establishing such an outstanding institution.
Oakleigh is a day and boarding school in the heart of Beitbridge town but has sought a modern approach to education where student embark on long international education trips.
It has modern equipment and boarding facilities that are arguably some of the best in the country.
It also has a scholarship programme for disadvantaged learners which Moyo said is a testament to its commitment to community upliftment, underscoring the importance of inclusive and compassionate education.
“This initiative also reflects the school’s values of empathy, kindness, and social responsibility. I also wish to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the school’s alumni, who continue to excel and uphold the name of Oakleigh House with distinction,” he said.
“A strong and accomplished alumni base is a testament to a school’s enduring legacy, and I encourage current learners to draw inspiration from their predecessors’ achievements and strive to make their own mark.”
Moyo urged learners, teachers, and staff to take pride in these magnificent facilities and ensure their upkeep.
“Let us work together to maintain the pristine condition of these new structures, preserving them for generations to come. With that said, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the event organizers for their meticulous with arrangements and warm hospitality. To the parents, learners, teachers, and community members who’ve joined us to celebrate this momentous occasion, thank you for your presence and unwavering support.”