The rampant theft of computers in schools across Matabeleland South’s Bulilima district has rolled back efforts to enhance e-learning and further widened the digital divide between learners in the rural and urban areas.
Mnigau Primary School lost 37 computers in a break-in last week, with other schools such as Kungubo and Male also falling victim to theft.
Mnigau primary received a donation of the computers in May 2022 as part of the government’s initiative to support the e-learning strategy.
Authorities at the time said the initiative aligns with the government’s Vision 2030 development agenda, which seeks to create a digital economy and enhance human capital development by equipping schools with modern technology.
Other schools in Bulilima district, including Sikhathini High, Mathambo Primary and Malalume Secondary also received 30 laptops each, along with projectors, printers and whiteboards.
Sources, however, said the theft of the computers appear to be orchestrated by syndicates that may involve individuals within the schools’ management structures.
Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services deputy minister Dingumuzi Phuti expressed concern over the alarming rate of school break-ins and computer thefts, describing it as a blow to national education objectives.
"We have tasked primary and secondary schools to conduct investigations and go round all schools with our team as a constituency to assess the damage," Phuti, who is also the Zanu PF Bulilima Member of Parliament, said.
"This will also allow us to address the challenges teachers face in using computers, as digital literacy and appreciation in our community remain very low.”
He said the computers were intended to enhance teaching and learning outcomes while preparing students for the demands of a digital future.
Phuti, however, said the theft of such equipment threatens to derail these efforts.
“This is a serious blow to our e-learning strategy,” said Phuti, emphasising the need for stronger security measures at schools.
The government has promised to roll out more computer laboratories in schools nationwide to ensure inclusive access to technology.
The deputy minister also called on local communities to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may jeopardise the education of future generations.
"As the investigations into the thefts continue, the Bulilima constituency is taking steps to address the challenges faced by teachers and students in integrating technology into the classroom, underscoring the importance of preserving the resources provided for national development," he said.
In 2012, the late president Robert Mugabe launched the national e-learning programme aimed at improving the education sector through internet learning at primary and secondary school level.
The uptake of the computers was, however, affected by lack of electricity in most rural schools where these gadgets had been donated.
There were also reports of theft of some of these computers by the teaching staff.