馃嚳馃嚰ZimbabweSouthern Africa
MoPSE launches WhatsApp chatbot to bridge rural education gap
via NewsDay Zimbabwe6 min read
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education MoPSE has launched a new WhatsApp-based learning platform, the Learner鈥檚 Hub Chatbot, aimed at improving access to academic support and learner welfare services, particularly for students in rural and underserved communities. Primary and Secondary Education minister Torerayi Moyo unveiled the chatbot at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo, highlighting its role in closing long-standing gaps in educational support. The platform offers real-time assistance, learning resources, and guidance, leveraging WhatsApp's widespread accessibility. This initiative is complemented by the government's distribution of over 8,000 Starlink connectivity kits to schools, enhancing internet access in rural areas. The chatbot also functions as a welfare tool, allowing students to report concerns and receive timely help, with automated responses and translation into indigenous languages to ensure inclusivity. Moyo emphasized that while technology strengthens and supports teachers, it does not replace them. The ministry plans to scale up the chatbot nationwide, focusing on affordability and accessibility for all learners.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe is looking to raise US$9 billion for its energy sector, with new regulations anticipated to accelerate grid expansion, improve electricity access, and attract new capital. This initiative comes as the country also focuses on other infrastructure projects and addresses climate and food security risks, including the impact of El Ni帽o. The government is also conducting a survey on the private solar boom, as many households are generating their own power. Additionally, Zimbabwe recently commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness.
China has reiterated its dedication to bolstering its relationship with Zimbabwe, pledging ongoing support for the country's industrialization and Vision 2030 agenda. This commitment was highlighted by Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding at a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army. Ambassador Zhou described the relationship as an "all-weather" partnership, emphasizing expanding military, economic, and diplomatic cooperation. He noted that China remains Zimbabwe's largest source of foreign direct investment and a key trading partner, with Chinese investments contributing to infrastructure upgrades and industrial expansion, including improvements in power supply and transportation, and the development of manufacturing hubs for steel, tiles, cement, and fertilizers. Cooperation between the People's Liberation Army and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces has deepened through training, logistics, and strategic coordination. The ambassador also traced the historical ties to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, acknowledging China's support through diplomatic backing, military assistance, and training. He mentioned President Xi Jinping's letter to Zimbabwean liberation war veterans, commending their contributions and encouraging them to inspire younger generations to strengthen China-Africa relations. Furthermore, Ambassador Zhou stated that China and Zimbabwe continue to collaborate on global affairs, defending multilateralism and advocating for a more equit
Must ReadZimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness. In other financial news, local banks have provided a US$125 million syndicated loan to Mutapa Gold following its turnaround. Meanwhile, ART operations have been affected by power outages and shortages of raw materials, with the manufacturer reporting a 6% decline in export volumes and a 26% decline in paper division volumes for the third quarter ending June 2022. Additionally, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority ZERA plans to survey the private solar sector due to increased household power generation.