Schools in Mashonaland urged to adopt the new curriculum
Schools in Mashonaland West have been encouraged to adopt the innovative heritage-based curriculum, which prioritises life skills development and practical problem-solving.
This approach aims to equip learners with real-world skills, enabling them to address societal challenges and create their own job opportunities. Unlike traditional learning methods that focused on memorisation, the new curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience and application.
Provincial Education Director (PED) reiterated his commitment to implementing the new curriculum during the official opening ceremony of Matanah Christian College last week. The PED retaliated that his administration was committed to fully embrace the heritage-based curriculum, ensuring that learners in Mashonaland West are empowered with the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world.
“We are emphasizing on the three pillars in the province, the first pillar is sport, arts and culture and we have undoubtedly been able to prove that it is the most paying pillar in terms of earnings in people’s lives, we have also introduced sports in our schools throughout the year,” the PED.
He added that vocational skills are inherent in learners and that forcing academics on everyone can be counterproductive. He noted that only 20 percent of learners are naturally inclined towards academics, while the rest need to focus on developing their skills in other areas.
The PED said vocational courses are crucial for producing well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. “By embracing this approach, we believe we will produce better individuals for tomorrow,” he said.
Patience Maraidza, a 15-year-old Form 4 learner at Matanah Christian College, is already making waves in the fashion world. As the Child Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West Province and Member of Parliament (MP) for Chinhoyi constituency, Maraidza is leveraging her platform to pursue her passion for fashion and design.
With a keen eye for style, Maraidza is determined to make a name for herself in the fashion industry, inspiring others with her unique sense of style and creativity. “I am passionate about carrier in fashion because it helps me spread a style or the class that I want to set for generations to come, it has always been my dream growing up, and I could also say that I am obsessed with fashion.
“My interest in this specific role is that it gives me the freedom of expression, fulfills my childhood desires in the fashion industry and can create a great platform for my name and business mindset,” said Maraidza.
As a student leader and young entrepreneur, Maraidza embodies the spirit of innovation and skill development that the new curriculum aims to foster. The aspiring fashionista, highlighted her computer literacy skills, which enable her to design clothing and patterns digitally.
”You should keep pushing, be persistent in the field and try to reach the ultimate goal of the industry because one could actually start making money and get financially stable with fashion,” she said.
Maraidza’s entrepreneurial spirit is inspiring, with plans to establish a garment factory, backed by various benefactors, once she finalizes her logistics.
Another talented student, Tanyaradzwa Mkodzani, an Ordinary Level learner, shared Maraidza’s passion for fashion design. She aims to create garments that not only make people look great but also feel confident and empowered.
Mkodzani’s passion for fashion design is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and love for innovative textiles. Drawing inspiration from the world around her, she seamlessly blends nature’s patterns with urban landscapes’ eclectic vibes.
New curriculum set to revolutionise learning in Mashonaland West Her fascination with fashion began at a young age, spent sketching designs, experimenting with fabrics, and learning from the greats.
Her design philosophy is a fusion of modern minimalism, sustainability, and playfulness, with a focus on wearable art that tells a story. For Mkodzani, fashion designing is not just about creating clothes, but about empowering individuals.
“I am interested in fashion designing because I believe clothing and accessories have the power to transform individuals, boosts confidence and express one’s identity, I am also fascinated by the creativity of bringing ideas to life through textiles, colours and silhouettes,” explained Mkodzani.
She said advantages of fashion design, include self-expression, creativity, and the ability to empower individuals through clothing. She also values the constant evolution and innovation in the field, as well as the opportunity to collaborate with diverse professionals, from models to photographers.
“My target audience is the conscious consumer, who values not only aesthetics but also the environmental and social impact of their fashion choices, this includes individuals who prioritize sustainability, body positivism and inclusivity.
She envisions herself as a sustainable fashion designer in five years, creating eco-friendly and inclusive clothing lines that cater to diverse body types and styles. She also aims to collaborate with like-minded brands and influencers to promote ethical fashion practices.
Mkodzani encouraged aspiring fashion designer to develop unique styles, stay curious, and keep learning about the industry and its trends.
She also emphasized the importance of networking, building relationships with peers and mentors, and prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices in their craft.