By Dumisani Ndlovu
GWERU—In a remarkable stride towards improving educational resources, Bata High School has officially opened a state-of-the-art Chemistry Laboratory, designed to provide students with hands-on experience in the subject. This facility, valued at US$25,000, was constructed and equipped by Bata Shoe Company as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and the Worldwide Bata Children’s Programme. The new laboratory aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills among learners, preparing them for future challenges in the scientific field.
The laboratory features a modern smart lecture theatre equipped with a projector and digital board, alongside essential laboratory furnishings such as burners, sinks, gas tanks, and a dedicated preparation area for teachers. This comprehensive setup is intended to create an engaging and practical learning environment, allowing students to immerse themselves in the world of chemistry.
Bata High School, which opened in January 2015 as a satellite of Chaplin High School, became an independent institution in 2019 and currently serves 355 students. The commissioning of this laboratory marks a significant milestone in the school’s development, enhancing its educational offerings and providing a more interactive learning experience.
During the inauguration ceremony, Owen Ncube, the Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Second Republic’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of Public-Private Partnerships in achieving quality education and enhancing teaching and learning environments. “The government’s desire to leapfrog the economy is anchored on collaboration with the private sector,” Ncube stated, underscoring the critical role that partnerships play in educational advancement.
The Minister elaborated on several key government initiatives aimed at improving educational access and quality. These include the private sector-led education infrastructure development, the Presidential internet scheme, and the provision of power to marginalized schools. He also mentioned the expansion of ICT infrastructure, which includes the BCS fibre network launched by the President in Somabhula, as well as the licensing of Starlink and the development of rural model schools such as Neta Secondary School in Mberengwa and Budiriro Primary in Gokwe South.
Ncube noted that the inauguration of the Chemistry Laboratory aligns with global aspirations, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all, regardless of gender, disability, or background. “Today’s event aligns with global aspirations such as the United Nations SDG 4 on ensuring access to quality inclusive and equitable education,” he remarked, reinforcing the significance of this initiative in the broader context of global educational goals.
The Minister commended Bata for its commitment to community empowerment through investments in education. He recognized the company’s efforts to give back to the community that supports it, stating, “Bata’s support for community empowerment initiatives is commendable, and their investment in the education sector is a testament to their commitment to the future of our children.”
Ncube also praised the progress made under the New Dispensation in the education sector, which includes the dropping of the Continuous Assessment Learning Activities (CALA) and the adoption of the Heritage Based Education 5.0 Model. This model integrates the country’s vision, history, culture, and natural resources into the educational framework, aiming to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of contributing to economic recovery and growth. “The curriculum is designed to help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills, as well as to create a skilled workforce,” he explained.
In his address, Ncube urged students to focus on their studies and avoid distractions such as drug abuse, early marriages, and bullying. He emphasized the importance of education as a pathway to success and warned against the allure of short-term benefits that could derail their academic journeys. “I implore learners to stay committed to their studies and to resist the temptations that can lead them astray,” he said.
The Minister also called on teachers to fully commit to their responsibilities to ensure high pass rates in schools. He stressed the need for parents to uphold their obligations in supporting their children’s education, particularly in terms of paying school fees, which are essential for the maintenance and expansion of educational facilities. “Parents should uphold their obligation to pay fees to enable maintenance and expansion of schools,” Ncube urged, highlighting the collaborative effort required to foster a conducive learning environment.
