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Jacqueline Ntaka
IN an increasingly interconnected world, digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. For Zimbabwe to thrive in the 21st century, the Government must prioritise Information and Communications Technology (ICT) education, making it a compulsory subject from primary through to secondary school.

This is not merely about teaching children how to use computers; it’s about equipping them with the tools and skills to navigate, innovate, and contribute to a globalised economy. The benefits of an ICT-educated nation are manifold, extending far beyond individual proficiency. Investing in ICT education will yield significant returns in economic growth, social development, and national competitiveness.

A workforce skilled in ICT is a catalyst for economic transformation. In today’s digital economy, businesses across all sectors rely on technology to enhance efficiency, productivity, and innovation.

By embedding ICT skills early in the education system, Zimbabwe can cultivate a generation of entrepreneurs, programmers, and data analysts, driving the growth of a robust tech sector.

Consider Estonia, a small nation that has transformed itself into a digital powerhouse. By making ICT a core part of its education curriculum, Estonia has fostered a thriving tech ecosystem. Its e-government services, digital identity system, and vibrant start-up scene are testaments to the power of a digitally literate population.

Estonia

Similarly, India’s investment in its IT sector has led to significant economic growth, creating millions of jobs and positioning the country as a global leader in software development and IT services. In Zimbabwe, this translates to supporting local tech start-ups, attracting foreign investment in technology, and empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to leverage digital tools for growth. Imagine Zimbabwean farmers using precision agriculture techniques informed by data analytics, or local artisans selling their crafts on global e-commerce platforms.

These scenarios are achievable with a strong foundation in ICT education.

ICT in education boosts engagement and provides access to vast resources, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving. As seen in South Korea, digital tools enhance learning and innovation. For Zimbabwe, this means better access to education, especially for remote areas, and improved pathways to higher education and careers.

ICT significantly enhances public service efficiency and transparency. E-government, via online tax, healthcare records, and voting, streamlines processes, combats corruption, and improves citizen interaction. Singapore’s “Smart Nation” demonstrates how digital platforms optimise urban planning, transport, and healthcare, offering convenient online access. In Zimbabwe, e-governance can improve service delivery in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, fostering transparency and accountability through digital communication and policy evaluation.

ICT can be a powerful tool for social inclusion, empowering marginalised communities and bridging the digital divide. By providing access to digital resources and training, Zimbabwe can ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to participate in the digital economy. Rwanda, a country that has made significant strides in ICT development, has prioritised digital inclusion. Its Smart Kigali initiative provides free Wi-Fi access in public spaces, enabling citizens to access online services and information. Furthermore, Rwanda has invested in digital literacy programmes, targeting women and rural communities. In Zimbabwe, this means establishing community technology centres, providing affordable internet access, and offering digital literacy training to marginalised groups. ICT can empower women entrepreneurs, connect rural communities to markets, and provide access to vital information on healthcare and education.

Implementing a comprehensive ICT education strategy requires addressing several challenges, including infrastructure, teacher training, curriculum development, and accessibility. Investing in reliable internet connectivity and digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, is essential.

Providing teachers with the necessary skills and resources to integrate ICT into their teaching practices is crucial. Developing a relevant and up-to-date ICT curriculum that aligns with the needs of the digital economy is vital. Ensuring that all students have access to digital devices and resources, regardless of their socio-economic background, is imperative. By addressing these challenges, Zimbabwe can create a sustainable and equitable ICT education system.

Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]