Zimbabwe focuses on Data to improve Education

Rutendo Mazhindu

ZimNow Reporter

Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education released a new report highlighting the importance of reliable data in improving the country’s education system. The data will guide policies and help track progress on national and global goals like the National Development Strategy (NDS1) and Agenda 2030.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Tonderayi Moyo, stressed the value of data in planning. “Reliable education statistics are key to ensuring that every child has access to quality education. They help us identify gaps and address challenges effectively,” he said.

The Education Sector Strategic Plan (ESSP) 2021-2025 focuses on five key areas: improving school facilities, enhancing curriculum, supporting learners’ well-being, training teachers, and strengthening leadership.“Our goal is to build an inclusive education system that leaves no child behind,” Dr. Moyo added. The report showed that Zimbabwe’s school-going population is 5.9 million, with nearly equal numbers of boys and girls.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) enrollment has steadily increased since 2020, but challenges remain for orphaned and vulnerable children, who make up 18.39% of ECD pupils. Programs like the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) have been crucial in helping vulnerable learners stay in school.“Education is a powerful tool to fight poverty, and we are committed to supporting every child,” said Dr. Moyo.

Zimbabwe has made significant progress in improving enrollment rates and gender equality in schools. The Ministry plans to use its Education Management Information System (EMIS) to collect and share more accurate data to guide future decisions. “With better data, we can continue to improve our education system and ensure a brighter future for all learners,” Dr. Moyo concluded.