Daniel Chigunwe
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE reaffirmed its strong commitment to the values and missions of Unesco, including the dedication to foster dialogue, strengthen multilateral cooperation and contributing meaningfully to the effective implementation of the agency’s global mandate.
Head of delegation at the ongoing 43rd Unesco General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Frederick Shava announced key achievements that have been undertaken by Zimbabwe in areas of science, education, culture , communication and information sector applauding the efforts by the agency in the attainment of these key global priorities.
In his address to members states and associates on Monday, Dr Shava also made an announcement of Zimbabwe’s candidature for the election to the Executive Board, signaling a strong commitment to global education, culture and science.
Zimbabwe is currently participating at the 43rd general conference which kickstarted in Samarkand on the 30th of October to the 13th of November drawing delegations from 194 countries to debate and vote on UNESCO’s program and budget as well as to deliberate on key global priorities across education, science, culture and communication.
Dr Shava commended the programme and budget for the biennium 2026-2027, “ we recognise that the financial challenges facing the organisation may limit implementation of some initiatives, yet we commend the Secretariat for crafting a focused and realistic programme that addresses the most pressing needs of our shared humanity.
“Zimbabwe is a proud and active member state of Unesco. We value the organisation’s role in supporting our national development priorities and in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, the safety of journalists, and the digital divide. Mr President, Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 — “The Africa We Want.”
Dr Shava, who also chairs the Zimbabwe National Commission for Unesco, highlighted several positive strides in the attainment of various key global priorities.
“ In the field of education, Zimbabwe continues to transform its system through Heritage-Based Education 5.0, aimed at producing graduates with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for industrialisation and modernisation. This transformation begins at the foundational level, where a heritage-based curriculum grounds learners in Zimbabwe’s cultural identity, history, and indigenous knowledge systems.
“In line with our commitment to inclusive and lifelong learning, Zimbabwe is implementing the Integrated Skills Outreach Programme (ISOP) to ensure that every child and youth, including those in rural communities, acquires relevant practical skills. With UNESCO’s support, this holistic approach is yielding tangible results—from curriculum reform and literacy initiatives to the growth of innovations, start-ups, and patents emerging from our institutions of higher learning.”
Among key priorities highlighted by Zimbabwe includes the ongoing conservative efforts supported by UNESCO in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage.
“ Strategic initiatives, such as the EU-backed tourism baseline study in Matobo Hills, are enhancing community engagement and sustainable site management.
“ With Unesco’s support, Zimbabwe is implementing a National Intangible Cultural Heritage Project that empowers traditional leaders as custodians of cultural knowledge and community values.
“We are also contributing to the UnescoFood Atlas initiative, supported by Saudi Arabia, by documenting our diverse culinary traditions—preserving vital foodways while strengthening nutrition, livelihoods, and intergenerational learning,” said Minister Shava.
Meanwhile, among numerous fulfillment of the agency’s mandate in areas of technology, climate change and media, Zimbabwe is also eyeing a seat in the Unesco Executive Board which will avail several strategic, diplomatic and developmental advantages to the country.
“As we look to the future, Zimbabwe stands ready to strengthen cooperation with Unescoand all member states in building a world where education, science, culture, and communication serve as pillars of peace, sustainability, and human dignity.
“ Mr. President, as a candidate for election to the Executive Board at this session, Zimbabwe reaffirms its strong commitment to the values and mission of Unesco. We stand ready to continue our active support for the , organisation’s strategic priorities.
“Drawing on our national experience and regional engagement, Zimbabwe remains dedicated to fostering dialogue, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and contributing meaningfully to the effective implementation of UNESCO’s global mandate.”
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