LORRAINE NDAWI
MASVINGO-The government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving educational standards within the country’s correctional facilities.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched a nationwide assessment of prison schools, an initiative aimed at evaluating the quality and effectiveness of education provided at the institutions.
Speaking during a recent visit to Mutimurefu Prison in Masvingo, the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Angeline Gata, emphasized that education is a fundamental right that should extend to all citizens, including those behind bars. She noted that the assessment program will help identify gaps in teaching, learning resources, and overall program effectiveness, ensuring that inmates have access to meaningful and transformative educational opportunities.
“Inclusive education is vital for the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates,” Deputy Minister Gata said. “Providing quality education in prisons not only equips individuals with knowledge and skills but also prepares them to positively contribute to society upon release. No one should be denied access to learning simply because they are incarcerated.”
Gata also took the opportunity to commend Mutimurefu Prison for its strong academic performance. She highlighted the facility’s high pass rate in recent examinations, describing it as a testament to the dedication of both educators and learners within the correctional facility. “The achievements here demonstrate what is possible when commitment and structured learning are prioritized,” she said.
The officer in charge of Mutimurefu Farm Prison, Superintendent Francis Makonese, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry for recognizing the value of inmate education. He stressed that education plays a critical role in rehabilitation, providing inmates with skills and qualifications that improve their chances of employment and social reintegration after serving their sentences.
Prison education programs in Zimbabwe typically cover a range of subjects, including literacy and numeracy, vocational skills, and general secondary school curricula. Over the years, these programs have proven instrumental in reducing recidivism rates and promoting personal development among inmates.
The nationwide assessment will see Ministry officials visit prisons across the country to inspect classrooms, review teaching methods, evaluate learning materials, and interact with both educators and students. The findings from this initiative are expected to inform policy decisions, resource allocation, and curriculum development for prison education programs in the coming years.
“Education in correctional facilities is more than just teaching—it is about giving hope, restoring dignity, and preparing individuals for a better future,” Gata said. She encouraged educators working in prisons to continue their hard work, recognizing the unique challenges of teaching in these environments.
Superintendent Makonese also emphasized the need for continued government support, particularly in providing learning materials, modern teaching aids, and additional training for prison teachers. “With the right resources and support, we can ensure that our inmates gain not only knowledge but also the confidence and skills needed to rebuild their lives,” he said.
As Zimbabwe strengthens its focus on prison education, this initiative signals a broader commitment to rehabilitation and social reintegration, highlighting the role of learning as a transformative tool even within correctional settings.
