Since the introduction of homework clubs for learners in October 2021 by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) in collaboration with FACT Zimbabwe through The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)/ USAID Zimbabwe supported Children Tariro and DREAMS projects, learners have continued to engage in their learning activities. The COVID-19 pandemic which did not spare Zimbabwe saw a disruption of physical classes and the adoption of virtual learning spaces for learners through SMS and WhatsApp.
The homework clubs are part of the efforts by MoPSE to digitalise education in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, 11,380 learners have been supported through 1,523 club facilitators with airtime/data to participate in the online classes.
“The textbooks that were received by the students from USAID through FACT assisted in raising the pass rate as compared to the previous years,”- Derembwe School Head
The teachers give us tests, exercises and notes. They will later send answers so that I mark my work then I send the marks to the teachers. In areas of misunderstanding, I am free to ask questions. I receive monthly airtime to do lessons,” Unity Mahlaza.
We greatly appreciate the introduction of homework clubs and the support being given to the children through airtime and learning material. This has allowed him to continue with his studies during the lockdown with close supervision from his teachers,” Miriam Maira (Caregiver).
In 2020, with support from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) the FACT Zimbabwe-led consortium procured and distributed education materials including Ventures Series Grade 1 to 7 (37836), Step Ahead Series Form 1 to 4 (33920), A- Level Sciences (5366), A-Level Arts (15757), A Level Commercials (13262) textbooks and 8319 mobile devices and network lines.
The Children Tariro project aims to improve health, education, protection, and socio-economic outcomes among children living with and affected by HIV, their caregivers, and families. FACT Zimbabwe is implementing the project in six districts namely Makoni, Mutare, Chipinge, Mutasa, Buhera in Manicaland and Gutu in Masvingo province.