UNICEF Zimbabwe Commemorates International Day of Education, Focusing on Inclusive Learning

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reflect on the progress made in providing quality education for all children in Zimbabwe, while acknowledging the need to ensure inclusivity in the education system on the International Day of Education,

Dr Tajudeen Oyewale, the UNICEF Representative has emphasised the importance of inclusive education and called it a moral imperative.

Dr Oyewale said, “We commend Zimbabwe for the high net enrollment ratio in primary school, with nine out of ten children of primary school age in school.”

“However, only six children out of ten aged 3 to 5 are enrolled in pre-primary education, and an estimated half a million children of primary and lower secondary school age are out-of-school, according to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS).These data remind us to continue to work together under the leadership of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to address the challenges that keep children out of school,” he added.

Towards Sustainability

In a significant development, the African Union has dedicated the year 2024 to education, providing Zimbabwe with an opportunity to accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on quality education for all. The Transforming Education Summit held in 2022 highlighted key commitments regarding education financing, foundational learning, and inclusive learning. It is now crucial for the government to translate these commitments into concrete actions.

Recently, Zimbabwe celebrated World Children’s Day in Beitbridge, where over a thousand children took the opportunity to emphasize their right to education. In a survey conducted by UNICEF prior to the event, education emerged as the most important right according to the participating children. Most children expressed their happiness with their schools and expressed a willingness to contribute to their school’s organisation, transforming it into their own “Dream School.”

A 17-year-old learner from Beitbridge, Nobuhle Nokutenda Sibanda, emphasised the significance of inclusive education.

Education for Progress

She stated, “Education is the cornerstone of progress and development, and we must ensure that every child has equal access to quality education regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, and circumstances.”

Sibanda further highlighted that inclusive education is not only a matter of policy but a moral imperative, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which declares that all children, including those with disabilities, have the right to education free from discrimination. The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child reiterates this right, emphasizing the government’s role in providing adequate resources and support for inclusive education.

Inclusive education, according to Sibanda, embraces diversity, respects the rights of all children, and provides equal opportunities for learning and growth. Sibanda emphasized the importance of removing barriers that hinder access to education, such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of specialized resources, and negative attitudes towards disabilities, to ensure that every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

Advancing Children’s Rights

Zimbabwe has made significant progress in advancing children’s right to education, with the implementation of various policies promoting inclusive education, including the Education Amendment Act, the Children’s Act, and the Disability Act.

Sibanda emphasised that inclusive education is not a luxury but a fundamental human right. Upholding this right is the collective responsibility of all Zimbabweans, irrespective of ability or background, to ensure equal access to education. Creating an inclusive educational system will foster a society that celebrates diversity, encourages empathy, and empowers every child to realise their dreams.

On the occasion of the International Day of Education, UNICEF Zimbabwe wishes everyone a happy celebration and encourages continued efforts to provide quality education for all.