By Shadreck Gurenje
President Mnangagwa has said government under the Second Republic will continue to equip the young generation to face the future with confidence, zeal and determination.
President Mnangagwa also reiterated that his administration is laying a strong foundation so that the young people play their part to transform the socio-economic development of the nation.
Addressing the 45th Independence Children’s Party at Nyamuroro High School in Gokwe Nembudziya today , President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa said government is implementing programmes that focus on increasing youth participation in development and decision-making processes.
“My Government will continue to equip you, our children to face your future with confidence, zeal and determination, so that you lay a strong foundation to play your part to transform the socio-economic development of our nation.
“In all that we do, we must be guided by our philosophy Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatirwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhu-le-kelwe ngabanikazi balo.
“The health and well-being of every citizen of our nation, including school-going children, are critical for unlocking the country’s economic potential.
“It is our collective responsibility to address the plight of vulnerable and disadvantaged pupils in schools. No matter where they are, they too must be facilitated to enrol for their education and pursue fulfilling careers,” said President Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa also urged the young generation to respect the heroes and heroines who made it possible for them to have access to education, health care, and opportunities through their sacrifices.
“Our national Independence represents the struggles and sacrifices made by many young boys and girls of the past, who were just like you, and fought for our freedom. It is a time to reflect on our liberation history and to also celebrate the progress we have made as a nation and to look ahead for a brighter future.
“Let us continue to respect the heroes and heroines who made it possible for you, the children of Zimbabwe, to have access to education, health care, and opportunities. This year’s Independence Day Celebration’s theme, ‘Zimbabwe at 45: Devolve and Develop together towards Vision 2030,’ must remind you, our children that as Government and your elders, we want you to have equal development, opportunities and access to ICTs, whether you live in rural or urban areas,” said President Mnangagwa.
In the education sector, President Mnangagwa said his administration is engaging various stakeholders to guarantee the provision of quality education that is affordable to all children.
“Government is engaging various stakeholders to guarantee the provision of quality education that is affordable to all children as well as the promotion of learning skills to make our learners ready for the world of the future.
“The construction of modern classroom blocks, training of teachers, and availing learning materials, makes sure that no child is left behind.
“We will also continue to engage with companies and other partners, including Zimbabweans in the diaspora to create relations for the growth and modernisation of our education sector.
“This cooperation is based on mutual respect and shared values towards transforming the sector. Zimbabwe signed many regional and international agreements, and remains committed and focused on achieving the targets set under Sustainable Development Goal 4, on quality education,” said President Mnangagwa.