Press Statement
Today, as we commemorate International Education Day, we celebrate education as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone for sustainable development. This year’s theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” reminds us of the critical need to balance technological advancements with the empowerment of learners and educators.
Education is not merely a tool for personal growth but the foundation upon which equality, opportunity, and national development are built. A well-educated society is a resilient society, capable of navigating the complexities of the modern world while safeguarding human dignity and agency.
In Zimbabwe, the vision of quality and equitable education for all remains an elusive dream for many. Chronic underfunding continues to stifle progress, leaving schools without adequate infrastructure, learning materials, or modern technology. The roll-out of the Heritage-Based Curriculum remains incomplete, with teachers lacking the necessary training and financial support to implement it effectively.
Climate and economic crises further compound these challenges. In most parts of rural areas, students and teachers must risk their lives crossing flooded rivers to access schools. Such realities highlight the urgent need for systemic change to address these inequities and create safe, inclusive, and effective learning environments for all.
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) continues to stand at the forefront of the fight for educational justice. Through persistent advocacy, we have achieved critical milestones, including initiating discussions on training for the Heritage-Based Curriculum and advocating for alternative methods of funding education to support vulnerable learners.
Additionally, ARTUZ has strengthened partnerships with student unions and civic organizations, fostering a united front to demand transformative changes in the education sector. However, challenges such as the unresolved low salaries for teachers remind us that there is still much work to be done.
On this International Education Day, ARTUZ calls upon the government, private sector, and international partners to prioritize education in their policies and budgets. We urge the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to move beyond rhetoric and join us in addressing the systemic issues plaguing our schools.
As ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure aptly stated:
“Education is the backbone of our nation’s progress. Let us work together to ensure that no child is left behind and every teacher is empowered to inspire the next generation.”
Education is a shared responsibility. Let us commit to building an education system that is inclusive, equitable, and adaptable to the challenges of the future. As we honor the role of education in shaping our society, we invite stakeholders to join ARTUZ in its upcoming initiatives to champion the rights of teachers and learners alike.
Together, we can ensure that education remains a powerful driver of progress, preserving human agency in a rapidly evolving world.