Hearing-impaired students from Emerald Hill School for the Deaf brought home a Judges Award from the 2025 First Global Robotics Challenge held in Panama, marking a milestone achievement as the competition's only team with auditory disabilities. The group represented Zimbabwe at the international event and earned recognition for their technical skill and perseverance despite communication barriers during matches.
Team captain Mufaro Makwema expressed pride in showcasing their nation's abilities on a global stage. Tanatswa Mutsvunguma explained that learning robotics presented initial difficulties but became manageable through practice with smaller machines and guidance from coaches. Communication obstacles in Panama were overcome using written notes and simplified gestures. Rosemary Mugova highlighted the excitement of air travel, noting the journey required three separate flights to reach the competition venue.
Mentor Prisca Sinyoro credited the Education 5.0 framework for supporting student development in science and innovation fields. The curriculum emphasizes creative thinking and practical problem-solving through subjects aligned with STEM disciplines. Officials noted the accomplishment demonstrates progress in educational accessibility under current government policies focused on reaching underserved populations across Zimbabwe.
Team captain Mufaro Makwema expressed pride in showcasing their nation's abilities on a global stage. Tanatswa Mutsvunguma explained that learning robotics presented initial difficulties but became manageable through practice with smaller machines and guidance from coaches. Communication obstacles in Panama were overcome using written notes and simplified gestures. Rosemary Mugova highlighted the excitement of air travel, noting the journey required three separate flights to reach the competition venue.
Mentor Prisca Sinyoro credited the Education 5.0 framework for supporting student development in science and innovation fields. The curriculum emphasizes creative thinking and practical problem-solving through subjects aligned with STEM disciplines. Officials noted the accomplishment demonstrates progress in educational accessibility under current government policies focused on reaching underserved populations across Zimbabwe.
