The Ministry of Primary and Secondary education has come up with a draft curriculum proposing the introduction of foreign languages like Chinese and the use of new grading systems at Ordinary Level based on theory, practical examinations and continuous assessment.
In an announcement made on the state-controlled Herald newspaper on Monday, the ministry said the other compulsory languages to be introduced in all government schools are French, Swahili and Portuguese.
If approved by Cabinet, the new curriculum will result in final Ordinary Level grades being based on 40 percent theoretical examinations, 30 percent practical examinations and 30 percent continuous assessment. The current system is based on final examinations.
According to Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association chief executive, Sifiso Ndlovu, who took part in the curriculum review, the proposals are designed to mould students that ready for the outside world.
But Takavafira Zhou of the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe, which also participated in the curriculum review based on recommendations of the 1999 Presidential Commission of Inquiry on Education, says not they are worried about the final draft curriculum.
Primary and Education Minister Lazarus Dokora was not available for comment as he was not responding to calls on his mobile phone
