Zimbabwe is set to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Coding, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Robotics as mandatory subjects within its primary and secondary school curricula. This ambitious move is part of a broader national effort to cultivate a technology-driven workforce and accelerate the country’s digital transformation agenda. The announcement was made by Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, during the ANRAIC 2026 Challenge held at Tynwald Primary School.
This initiative aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an innovation-driven, upper-middle-income economy by investing in human capital from an early age. The government’s objective is to shift the nation’s focus from being technology consumers to technology creators, equipping learners with the essential skills to become innovators, researchers, and problem-solvers capable of developing homegrown digital solutions.
The rollout of this program will be underpinned by three critical pillars: expanding digital infrastructure, implementing the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030, and strengthening online safety measures for children. As part of the infrastructure development, the government plans to continue expanding the Presidential Internet Scheme and the One Learner, One Device Initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, to ensure equitable access to digital learning tools across the country.
Key Players Involved
- Tatenda Mavetera: Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, who announced the curriculum changes.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Whose Vision 2030 framework guides the national digital transformation agenda.
- Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education: Collaborating on the expansion of digital learning infrastructure.
Event Timeline
- August 4, 2026: Minister Tatenda Mavetera announces the compulsory integration of AI, Coding, IoT, and Robotics during the ANRAIC 2026 Challenge.
- Ongoing: Implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 and expansion of digital infrastructure.
