HARARE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Local students on Thursday showcased scientific projects alongside a celebration of Zimbabwean and Chinese heritage at a school exhibition in Harare.
The event, held at Chivaraidze Primary School in the Zimbabwean capital, highlighted the importance of integrating language learning with science and technology education to prepare students for an interconnected world.
Students presented real-life solutions to local challenges, covering renewable energy, robotics, modern agricultural systems, recycling, and digital technology.
Meanwhile, Chinese language learners impressed visitors with their linguistic skills and cultural exhibits, including hand-held fans, lanterns, and artwork. Students also showcased cardboard replicas of modern and historical architectural landmarks from both countries.
Preview Jongwe, a Chinese language teacher at the school, said combining language learning with science and technology equips students with intercultural communication skills and boosts innovation.
"Teaching them Chinese broadens their access to modern technologies in China," the teacher noted.
She added that since China is a major partner in Zimbabwe's infrastructure, mining, manufacturing, and education sectors, proficiency in the language unlocks career opportunities in scientific and technological fields.
Student Kaleisha Chiyaka demonstrated her calligraphy and chopstick skills during the event. "The main importance of learning a language is being able to communicate effectively with others. You also get to learn new cultures and experiences," she said.
To mark the Dragon Boat Festival, which falls on June 19 this year, another student, Rukudzo Masapa, made a dragon boat replica out of cardboard. "I made a dragon boat to celebrate the festival, which promotes tradition, teamwork, and cooperation," Masapa said.
The exhibition aligns with Zimbabwe's Heritage-Based Curriculum, which integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) into a unified framework to provide practical skills.
Rose Mbiriyakura, an educator visiting the exhibition, lauded the initiative.
"We are seeing an education that can produce learners who can solve problems and collaborate across borders," she said. "They will become practical experts, bringing solutions while increasing their life skills."
