Education ministers from southern Africa have promised to take quick steps to boost basic reading and math skills across their region. The officials gathered in Harare yesterday for talks about fixing learning problems that affect millions of children. They agreed these core abilities help fight poverty and create equality between men and women. The ministers want better teacher training and smarter education policies based on real data.
Zimbabwe's education chief Dr Torerayi Moyu said many kids still cannot read or do simple math. He called the meeting more than just talk but a demand for real change. Zimbabwe has tried programs like the Early Reading Initiative that started in 2013 with global education partners. The country also uses special methods to help young students learn English better.
Skills minister Paul Mavima said basic learning abilities drive economic growth across the region. He praised creative teaching programs in Zambia, Malawi and Namibia that help students in remote areas. Mavima wants all countries to match their education rules and spend more money training teachers in rural places. He said teacher colleges must prepare educators the same way schools expect them to teach.
Regional official Angele Makombo stressed that strong foundation skills lead to better health and social participation. Without these basics, young people cannot handle future jobs or help reduce regional poverty.
Zimbabwe's education chief Dr Torerayi Moyu said many kids still cannot read or do simple math. He called the meeting more than just talk but a demand for real change. Zimbabwe has tried programs like the Early Reading Initiative that started in 2013 with global education partners. The country also uses special methods to help young students learn English better.
Skills minister Paul Mavima said basic learning abilities drive economic growth across the region. He praised creative teaching programs in Zambia, Malawi and Namibia that help students in remote areas. Mavima wants all countries to match their education rules and spend more money training teachers in rural places. He said teacher colleges must prepare educators the same way schools expect them to teach.
Regional official Angele Makombo stressed that strong foundation skills lead to better health and social participation. Without these basics, young people cannot handle future jobs or help reduce regional poverty.
