The German government has contributed 15 million Euro (over US$17,5 million) for Zimbabwe’s schooling sector’s development through Education Development Fund (EDF).
Speaking during the launch of the contribution German Ambassador to Zimbabwe at the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) yesterday, Dr Thorsten Hutter said his country increases its contribution from 10 million Euro, in 2016 to 15 million this year in building resilience in particular climate change.
“This additional funding of EDF aid to Zimbabwe by German government demonstrate our continued commitment to ensuring access to quality schoolls for all Zimbabweans,” Hutter said.
The 15 million Euro has been available for EDF II for 2018 and 2019.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Paul Mavhima, who was the guest of honour during the launch of the contribution commended the government for the funding.
“I know that Germany, alongside other EDF partners, has provided funding to support the education sector from 2010 when we had the Education Transition Fund,” Mavhima said.
“The current contribution clearly illustrates the value and strategic partnerships in promoting the realisation of every child’s right to basic education.”
“I also take this opportunity not only to acknowledge the financial and technical contributions of other players in this partnership, but to invite more players to join us, with each bringing their comparative strength to the table.” Mavhima went on.
UNICEF representative to Zimbabwe Dr. Mohamed Ayoya said that the funding made available by Germany has helped protect and continue building on successes of EDF.
“I am aware that limited fiscal space has frustrated (Zimbabwe) Government efforts to invest more in the sector,” Ayoya said. “However, at this stage of Zimbabwe’s history, we see real prospects for significant expansion in the fiscal space,”
“One of the best ways of acknowledging and realising the value of Germany’s contributions to the education sector is to systematically institutionalise the successful interventions that have been supported through EDF.”
“As UNICEF, we stand ready to continue to support the Government of Zimbabwe to ensure that no child is left behind in attaining equitable access to quality learning.” Ayoya continued.
The funds by German are to support the educational curriculum and learners in the most disadvantaged schools in Zimbabwe.
Part of the funds shall be used to procure learning materials and assistive devices for children living with disabilities.