Zimbabwe Seeks To Close ICT Skills Gap

ZTN News Reporter

Schools in Zimbabwe will receive computers and free internet as government seeks to plug a skills deficit in the area of information communication technology.

The 2018 national critical skills audit report points out a massive shortfall of ICT skills which it says may act against Zimbabwe’s efforts to achieve its industrialisation and modernisation vision. The ICT skills deficit has resulted in very low investment in digital connectivity.

As part of efforts to close this skills deficit in the ICT sector, the Zimbabwean government is now donating computers to schools all over the country in order to equip learners with necessary ICT skills. A target of 8000 schools has been set.

Speaking to ZTN News on the sidelines of the official opening of ICT labs in 8 schools in Harare recently, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said the programme is also part of efforts to achieve Vision 2030.

“We are all aware that ict is now the electricity of the 21st century in the context of the fourth industrial revolution. So the teaching and training of students across all geographical arenas is important as we journey towards vision 2030.

“This also brings in inclusivity. This package also includes training and educating of the teachers and the tutors,” he said.

Schools in rural areas are also going to benefit from the programme.