Zimpapers Logo

Jacqueline Ntaka 

ROBOTICS and coding are becoming increasingly important skills in the 21st century, as they are essential for many fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Government of Zimbabwe has recognised this and is introducing robotics and coding in schools, aiming to prepare learners for the future and boost the country’s development.

But what are the benefits of robotics and coding education for learners and the country as a whole?

First of all, robotics and coding education can improve the learners’ proficiency and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. Robotics and coding are fun and engaging ways to learn about various STEM concepts, such as physics, logic, algorithms and design. By interacting with robots and creating programmes, learners can see the practical applications of STEM and develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. Robotics and coding can also spark the learners’ interest in pursuing STEM careers, which are in high demand and offer many opportunities for innovation and advancement.

Secondly, robotics and coding education can help learners develop teamwork and communication skills. Robotics and coding projects often require collaboration and co-ordination among students, who have to work together to design, build, test and improve their robots and programs. Through this process, learners can learn how to communicate effectively, share ideas, give and receive feedback and resolve conflicts. These skills are not only useful for STEM, but for other academic and social situations as well.

Thirdly, robotics and coding education can benefit the country as a whole by fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Robotics and coding can inspire learners to create new solutions for various challenges and opportunities, such as improving health, education, agriculture, energy and environment. By exposing learners to robotics and coding at an early age, the country can nurture a generation of innovators and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the country’s economic and social development.

Fourthly, robotics and coding education can help the country achieve socio-economic and political goals, such as reducing poverty, enhancing democracy and promoting human rights. Robotics and coding can enable the country to create more jobs, increase productivity and diversify its economy. According to a study by the International Journal of Social Robotics, the use of robots led to an increase in both total factory productivity and wages. Robotics and coding can also empower citizens to access information, express their opinions and participate in decision-making. For example, the internet of things (IoT) can facilitate high-speed networks and remote sensors to connect people and businesses. Robotics and coding can also support the country’s efforts to protect human rights, such as education, health and privacy. For instance, robotics and coding can help the country improve its education system by providing personalised learning, interactive feedback and adaptive assessment.

Robotics and coding education can help the country cope with the challenges and risks posed by automation and artificial intelligence. It can also equip learners with the skills and knowledge to adapt to the changing labour market and the increasing demand for high-level cognitive and social abilities. Robotics and coding can also enable learners to understand the ethical, legal, and social implications of robotics and artificial intelligence, and to develop responsible and informed attitudes towards them. For example, robotics and coding can help learners consider the issues of robotic taxation, social inequality, protection of neuro-human and children rights, among others.

In short, robotics and coding education can have many positive impacts on learners and the country as a whole. By introducing robotics and coding in schools, the Government is taking a proactive step to prepare learners for the future and enhance the country’s potential. With robotics and coding in play, Vision 2030 has just received a boost.

λ For feedback you can contact Jacqueline Ntaka on [email protected]