‘ Grade 7 Curriculum To Now Include Farming To Resolve Zimbabwe’s Agriculture Crisis’- Lazarus Dokora

THE government has arranged a trial Grade seven agriculture examination in a move expected to enlighten teachers and pupils on the importance of the subject. The examination is set for this year. Speaking at the Young Farmers’ Clubs Empowerment and Entrepreneurship project launch, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Lazarus Dokora said agriculture was at the centre of the new curriculum.“Agriculture is at the centre of the new curriculum. This wasn’t an accident but a deliberate strategy to support the land reform programme in the country. Today Zimbabweans have the land but not necessarily the skills to work the land.

“In this context education is challenged to bridge that gap. Pursuant to that goal, my ministry has arranged to have a trial Grade Seven examination in agriculture this year. This is meant to make both teachers and learners take account of agriculture seriously,” he said.

“Agricultural skills in crop farming and animal husbandry, for example, are some exit skills that the new curriculum will impart to the learners.” He said the new curriculum enabled school learners to gain practical skills which they could use to start businesses.

“The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education recognises the need for practical skills training in our youths and that’s why a new curriculum has been developed. The new curriculum enables school learners to gain practical skills which they can use to start their businesses upon completing their basic education,” he said.

The new curriculum would be implemented next year. Melody Mashaire source-chronicle