The government has raised concerns that many independent colleges and private schools are neglecting Zimbabwe’s indigenous languages, along with technical and vocational subjects.
Speaking to The Sunday Mail, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo said all schools must implement the Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC).
“Our indigenous languages, which include Shona, Ndebele, Kalanga, Shangani and Tonga, are not taught in many ATS (Association of Trust Schools) institutions,” said Moyo.
“They are now learning French, Chinese, and no longer learning our local languages.
“Most of the independent colleges and private schools do not offer technical and vocational subjects, which are offered by the HBC.
“It is important to offer the Heritage-Based Curriculum because it is aligned with the national vision of the President, Vision 2030.
“The Presidential vision can only be achieved or attained through the power of education, through the HBC.”
Government, council and mission schools mainly teach HBC. Some private and trust schools offer both the HBC and the Cambridge curriculum, which is administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education.
Harare International School and a handful of other institutions follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme.
Moyo said the government has directed all schools in Zimbabwe to introduce HBC examinations administered by ZIMSEC from 2027. The exams will be compulsory.
He clarified that international examinations such as Cambridge and the IB have not been banned.
However, schools that want to offer two or more curricula will need to seek permission from the ministry.
The International Baccalaureate is a non-profit educational foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland. It offers a globally recognised programme that mainly caters for expatriate and diplomatic communities.
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