By Tendai Chisiri
HARARE — The Artificial Intelligence Institute of Zimbabwe (AIIZim) has welcomed Government’s decision to make Artificial Intelligence, Coding and Robotics compulsory subjects in all primary and secondary schools, calling it a “bold stride” towards Vision 2030.
The announcement was made by Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda A. Mavetera, at the Abedai National Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things Challenge, ANRAIC, 2026.
In a statement issued on 3 August 2026, AIIZim said the move positions Zimbabwe to build “a generation of creators, not just consumers.”
“The Future We Have Been Waiting For“
“This is the future we have been waiting for,” said John Muchenje, Chairperson of the AIIZim Board. “By making AI compulsory, Zimbabwe is choosing to build a generation of creators, not just consumers. Learners will now be equipped to use technology to solve our own challenges in agriculture, health, education, and climate.”
Muchenje said the decision directly supports His Excellency President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of a digitally empowered, innovation-driven, upper-middle-income economy.
Three Pillars for Rollout
AIIZim noted the Minister’s emphasis on 3 critical pillars to guide implementation:
- Local Talent: Developing Zimbabwean AI experts under the National AI Strategy 2026-2030
- Inclusion: Expanding access through the Presidential Internet Scheme and the One Learner, One Device Initiative to “leave no child behind”
- Responsible Use: Strengthening the National Child Online Protection Policy to keep learners safe online
AIIZim Pledges Support
As a civil society platform promoting responsible and inclusive AI, AIIZim said it stands ready to partner with Government, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, MoICT, and the private sector on the national rollout.
The Institute cited its flagship Dziviso Edu initiative, which is already developing AI learning content in Shona, Ndebele and English delivered via WhatsApp to reach learners in both rural and urban schools.
AIIZim also plans to train teachers and establish AI & Innovation Clubs in schools “to bring this curriculum to life.”
“The work starts now,” Muchenje added. “AIIZim calls on all stakeholders – educators, tech companies, NGOs, and communities – to join hands with Government to ensure every Zimbabwean child benefits from this digital transformation.”
AIIZim also congratulated learners, teachers and schools that participated in ANRAIC 2026, saying “You are the future creators of Zimbabwe’s digital transformation.”
The Artificial Intelligence Institute of Zimbabwe is an independent civil society platform that promotes responsible AI and collaboration among government, academia, industry, communities and development partners. It works to bridge the gap between grassroots communities and national AI policy.
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