Government to construct 3 000 new schools by 2025
By Letwin Mubonesi
Government has approved the construction of 3 000 new schools by 2025 to decongest learning institutions as enrollment is increasing.
Some secondary schools will be converted into boarding schools while other low cost-boarding facilities will be constructed at existing schools as the need arises.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday, Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said COVID-19 had triggered the need for additional school infrastructure.
“The nation is informed that the country has realised a phenomenal increase in learner enrolment, and this has resulted in the need for the establishment of more primary and secondary schools,” she said.
Mutsvangwa said statistics showed that 37, 3% of the country’s estimated population, about 4 659 993, were school-going children hence the need to build more schools in the country.
“More schools are needed to accommodate the projected increase to 5 657 412 for the school-going age group. The COVID-19 pandemic has also increased the demand for new schools and additional school infrastructure so as to decongest existing boarding schools,” she said.
However, Mutsvangwa said government will prioritise the construction of secondary schools more than primary schools.
Zimbabwe has 6 798 primary and 2 980 government secondary schools, with a total enrolment of 4 659 993 pupils.
“Government will partner with both the private and public sectors to fund the construction of the schools. Treasury will fund the first 144 schools, while public-private or joint venture arrangements will be crafted to assist in the construction of 3 000 new schools required.
“Some existing day schools will be converted into boarding schools, while some low-cost boarding facilities will be constructed at existing schools as the need arises,” she said.
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