Zimbabwe plans to introduce vernacular language instruction for technical subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Geography, and Accounts. Education Minister Torerai Moyo announced the initiative during a Senate session on July 18, 2025. The proposal targets improved student comprehension and higher pass rates by using Shona, Ndebele, Kalanga, and other local languages. Moyo cited language barriers as obstacles to academic success, noting that Chinese students excel because they learn in their native tongue from early childhood through university.
Cabinet submissions are being developed to formalize the policy, though no official program exists yet. The minister requested parliamentary support for legislation requiring presidential approval. Current education policy mandates mother tongue instruction for students from early childhood development through Grade Two under the Zimbabwe Early Learning Policy. Zimbabwe recognizes sixteen official languages, with some regions already implementing local language education, like Tonga instruction in Binga.
Social media responses reflect divided opinions about the proposal's feasibility and priorities.
Cabinet submissions are being developed to formalize the policy, though no official program exists yet. The minister requested parliamentary support for legislation requiring presidential approval. Current education policy mandates mother tongue instruction for students from early childhood development through Grade Two under the Zimbabwe Early Learning Policy. Zimbabwe recognizes sixteen official languages, with some regions already implementing local language education, like Tonga instruction in Binga.
Social media responses reflect divided opinions about the proposal's feasibility and priorities.
