Zimbabwe Plans to Introduce AI, Coding, and Robotics in Schools

By Southerton Business Times | Harare

Zimbabwe is preparing to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding and robotics as compulsory learning areas from primary school as the Government moves to equip learners with skills needed for an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The proposed reforms were announced by Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera during the Abedai National Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things Challenge (ANRAIC) 2026 held at Tynwald Primary School in Harare.

Mavetera said digital skills must become a fundamental part of education if Zimbabwe is to produce innovators capable of developing home-grown technologies and competing in the global digital economy.

"Zimbabwe’s ambition is to produce innovators who can create home-grown technologies rather than rely on imported digital solutions," she said.

The Minister said Government was working with relevant stakeholders to introduce curriculum reforms that will integrate artificial intelligence, coding and robotics across all levels of education. She said exposing learners to emerging technologies from an early age would strengthen skills such as critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. According to Mavetera, the reforms are expected to prepare young Zimbabweans for future careers in fields including software development, automation, data science, engineering and digital entrepreneurship.

The Government also plans to expand school robotics and coding clubs, establish additional innovation laboratories and increase teacher training programmes to support the implementation of the new learning areas.

The proposed education changes are aligned with Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026-2030, which seeks to accelerate AI adoption, promote local research and encourage responsible use of emerging technologies. Mavetera said Zimbabwe must move beyond being a consumer of technology and become a producer of digital solutions that address local challenges. She said artificial intelligence could support innovation in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, mining and environmental management. The Minister added that Government initiatives such as the One Learner, One Device Initiative and the Presidential Internet Scheme would continue expanding access to digital tools and connectivity, especially in rural communities.

As more learners gain access to digital platforms, Mavetera said online safety must remain a priority. She said Government would strengthen implementation of the National Child Online Protection Policy through digital citizenship education, awareness campaigns and partnerships involving parents, schools and technology companies. The measures are aimed at protecting children from online risks including cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content and other forms of digital abuse.

Mavetera encouraged young people to use technology to develop solutions for Zimbabwe’s social and economic challenges. She said innovation should not be limited to major cities, adding that creative ideas can emerge from communities across the country if learners are given the right skills and opportunities. The Minister said developing a technology-focused education system would support the country’s Vision 2030 goal of building an upper-middle-income economy and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player in Africa’s digital transformation. She urged learners to embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, saying creativity and persistence would be central to shaping Zimbabwe’s technological future.

AI coding and robotics in Zimbabwe schools