Bulawayo, (New Ziana)—The government is prioritising teacher recruitment to improve pupil-teacher ratios, particularly in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, a Cabinet Minister has said.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Edgar Moyo said this while addressing delegates attending the ongoing annual Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) conference being held in the country’s second largest city.

Moyo said his Ministry, in collaboration with the Public Service Commission (PSC), is engaging the Treasury to fast-track the hiring of 8 000 qualified teachers.

Zimbabwe is focusing on incorporating STEM principles into the curriculum at all educational levels, with initiatives aimed at enhancing both quality and quantity in STEM pedagogy

“We remain committed to enhancing teacher recruitment, especially in critical areas like ECD and STEM education, to address teacher to pupil ratio.

“Through collaboration with the Public Service Commission, we are working with Treasury to expedite the employment of 8,000 qualified educators,” said Moyo.

He noted that while the proposal was submitted during last year’s pre-budget consultations, they are still waiting for final approval from Treasury.

“We presented our recruitment plans during the pre-budget seminar in late October and early November. Now, we await Treasury’s concurrence. Once granted, we will immediately begin hiring.

“These 8 000 positions are entirely new posts, not replacements for attrition due to resignations or transfers. Their addition will significantly reduce the current pupil-teacher ratio from 1:45 to roughly 1:40 or even 1:30,” he explained.

Moyo commended educators and described them as vital to the achievement of the national vision of transforming the country into an upper middle income society by 2030.

“We owe you not just gratitude but also responsive policies and a clear roadmap that recognizes your contributions. Beyond academics, we urge you to be societal stewards by guiding our students morally,” he said.

He called on teachers to support the newly established National Steering Committee Against Drug and Substance Abuse by raising awareness among students.

“As educators, you shape both minds and character. With the launch of this committee, your role in fostering resilience against drug abuse is crucial,” he said, adding that partnerships between the government and unions are essential to curb substance abuse and ensure safer schools.

“Together, we can defeat this scourge and create a nurturing environment for our children,” he said.

New Ziana