The Zimbabwe National Students’ Union (ZINASU) has rejected the proposed introduction of foreign languages like Chinese in schools saying the government is misplacing its priorities.
In its draft curriculum, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is proposing the introduction of compulsory languages like Chinese, French, Swahili and Portuguese, a new grading system and a five-month attachment program for Ordinary Level students.
ZINASU said the ministry is failing to address challenges plaguing the education sector and moving fast to introduce a new curriculum.
Gilbert Mutubuki, president of ZINASU, said government should focus more on technical subjects which give students innovative skills.
“What we need here is we need students that are innovative, we need people who are entrepreneurs,” said Mutubuki.
Along with the compulsory language requirement, the draft also proposes a new grading system at Ordinary Level, agriculture examinations for primary school pupils and a five-month life skills program for 'O' Level students, among other changes.
Curriculum changes will affect schools if approved by cabinet.
