Government Pledges Enhanced Mathematics Education at IDM Commemoration

By Ilyana Sithole

While the world commemorated the International Day of Mathematics on the 14th of March, 2025, Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Simelisizwe Sibanda, made a solemn vow: to better mathematics education in Zimbabwe.

Hon. Sibanda, on behalf of Hon. Dr. Frederick M. Shava, made a firm presentation on the International Day of Mathematics (IDM) celebrations at Belvedere Technical Teachers College (BTTC). His remark was that the government remains resolute to strengthen mathematics teaching as a cornerstone in shaping Zimbabwe.

This year’s theme, “Mathematics, Art, and Creativity,” “highlights the deep and fascinating relationship between numbers, patterns, and artistic expression.” He added that, “Mathematics is not only the foundation upon which science, technology, and innovation are built, but it also plays a vital role in artistic creativity and design.”.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the important role of mathematics in fostering Zimbabwe towards a knowledge-based and industrialized economy as envisioned in Vision 2030 towards an upper middle income society. He noted that is not just a subject but a “language that powers innovative problem-solving and propels progress.”

“Mathematics is not numbers and equations,” he said, citing its use in areas from architecture and music to engineering and medicine. He discussed the significant role of mathematics in artificial intelligence, leading to economic development and job creation.

Aware of the challenges in learning mathematics, the Deputy Minister spoke of the government’s resolve to overcome the challenges through contemporary teaching materials, online learning platforms, and better teacher training schemes. He emphasized inclusivity so that students from rural and poor communities can benefit from quality mathematics education.

“The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to breaking the barriers that hinder the effective teaching and learning of mathematics. We recognize that some students struggle with mathematics due to outdated teaching methods, inadequate resources, and societal perceptions that make the subject seem difficult. In response, the Government continues to invest in modern teaching aids, digital learning platforms, and teacher training programs to enhance mathematical instruction at all levels.”

The speech also placed emphasis on the government’s initiative to promote STEM learning through innovation hubs, research institutions, and industry partnerships. The Education 5.0 policy for problem-solving and heritage-led innovation was cited as the driving force behind the initiative.

“Through the Education 5.0 policy, we still advocate for an education system that is problem-solving, industrialization, modernization, and heritage-based innovation. Mathematics remains a central pillar in all this,” he added.

Deputy Minister Sibanda recognized the central role UNESCO plays in leading education in the world, especially mathematics. He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s determination to work closely with UNESCO and the rest of the world to advance mathematics education.

He called upon everyone to welcome mathematics enthusiastically and inquiringly, instructors to motivate and direct their students, and guardians to foster the children’s love for the discipline. The speech ended with a call for a renewed commitment toward the establishment of a culture of excellence in maths education.
It drives national advancement, innovative thinking, and scientific development.

“I urge our young learners to embrace the subject with curiosity and enthusiasm. Mathematics is not to be feared but to be mastered. It is through dedication and perseverance that great minds emerge to solve real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. Let us also appreciate the artistic side of mathematics, recognizing its role in shaping creativity, from the geometric precision of African bead-work to the mathematical rhythms in music and dance,” said Hon. Sibanda.

The International Day of Mathematics, commemorated globally on March 14th (Pi Day), is to raise public consciousness of the role of the mathematical sciences. The Belvedere Technical Teachers College event was a huge success in spreading this role, showcasing math as a driver of innovation and the arts. Individuals were brought to their awareness of their creative potential of mathematics and that they had to recognize the importance of its existence in daily life.

The competition, which included students from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, and the private sector, was able to generate interest in the significance of mathematics and its cross-disciplinary application, compelling students to learn the subject.