New Curriculum: will it benefit Zimbabwe in the labour market?
Zimbabwe’s new curriculum depends on practical subjects. It focuses on innovation and industrialisation for development. Its aim is to improve the labour market. Additionally, the end game is to create employment. In addition, many current graduates are unemployed and struggling. The labour market is in need of employment creation. The new curriculum will assist in job creation. This is by having graduates with practical knowledge.
Current and future labour market in Zimbabwe
Furthermore, the new curriculum’s drive is important. Currently, Zimbabwe is in need of production and rapid industrialisation. It is behind, globally. However, local production is on the rise. Homegrown ideas and products are filling shop shelves. Although, there is need for improvement. So, this revamp of the education system is duly welcome.
Moreover, Zimbabwe’s informal employment dominates the labour market. Two of the largest markets in Zimbabwe are informal. Namely, Mbare Musika (agriculture produce) and Magaba (metal work). These are based in Harare. These are where the majority of Zimbabwe’s money is traded. It employs millions of people, directly and indirectly.
Furthermore, there are a number of places like these all over Zimbabwe at a smaller scale. Focus on practical areas in school as those found in these markets is needed. The new curriculum sees this as important for development.
In addition, white collar SMEs are on the rise too. Entrepreneurs are making a mark in the Zimbabwean market. They provide cheaper services to clients. The majority are competent and professional. Resultantly, this makes life easier for those in need of these services. Also, lawyers, accountants, consultants and other professions have a share in this labour market as well.
Undoubtedly, the future labour market hinges on the above. The new curriculum focuses on the practical side of these skills. It also incorporates other areas. It includes film, economic history and musical art. In addition are dance, woodwork, textile and metal work studies. These practical subjects were on the back burner before. Hopefully, they will get a chance to shine now.
The role of the new curriculum in the labour market
To note is the government’s move to improve livelihoods. In the long run, the new education system will reap fruits. This competence-based curriculum for growth will see students succeed after graduation.
As a result, universities’ innovations are helping communities. MSU built a research and innovation ecosystem. This will support social and economic development. Additionally, MSU is working on equipment for black granite beneficiation.
On top of this, State universities have innovation hubs. Here, they develop inventions needed by the society. During the early stages of COVID, UZ made masks. Other institutions made PPE. Currently, these hubs are working on inventions in the agriculture, health and food processing industries.
Zimbabwe’s problems can only be solved by its citizens. Teaching children how to contribute to the nation’s development is the way to go. The Ministry of Education revamped the curriculum to cater for this. The future is bright. Innovation and local products and services will improve the economy of the nation.
