HARARE, Zimbabwe – The African Union Commission (AUC) has commended Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, describing it as a strong example of how education can drive innovation, skills development and economic growth.
The recognition came after a Benchmarking and Policy Learning Mission conducted by the AU’s Department of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) from June 10 to 12, 2026.
The mission was led by the AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona. Its goal was to assess the implementation, impact and scalability of Zimbabwe’s education reform programme.
The initiative forms part of the African Union’s efforts to identify successful African-led education models. These models are expected to support key continental frameworks, including the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA 2026-2035), the Continental TVET Strategy and the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2034).
During the visit, the delegation met several senior government officials. They included Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Prof. Amon Murwira, Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Frederick Shava, Youth Empowerment Minister Tino Machakaire, and Skills Audit and Development Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere.
Discussions focused on education governance, policy coordination and ways to strengthen links between education, innovation and industry.
Prof. Murwira said education must go beyond teaching theory. He noted that Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 model aims to make schools, colleges and universities active contributors to national development. The model encourages innovation, job creation and industrial growth.
At the end of the mission, Prof. Banyankimbona praised Zimbabwe’s progress. He said the Education 5.0 framework aligns learning, research, innovation and production with national development goals.
The AU delegation also visited universities, innovation hubs and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The visits provided first-hand insight into how the policy is being implemented.
According to the African Union, lessons from Zimbabwe’s experience will contribute to wider discussions on education reform across the continent. The AU believes strong education systems are key to innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth under Agenda 2063.