THE teaching of Tonga in Binga schools is set to receive a boost when President Robert Mugabe officially launches a series of Tonga textbooks for primary and secondary education called ChiTonga Bwanachilo and Lusumpuko series on October 30 in the district. RICHARD MUPONDE SENIOR REPORTER The launch is being organised by the Tonga Languages Committee (Tolaco), an organisation that champions the preservation of Tonga culture.
Tolaco chairperson pastor Jefrey Muleya yesterday confirmed the launch of the textbook series, but said they were still awaiting the finalisation of the programme from Harare.
“Initially it was scheduled to be held on October 16, but was postponed to October 30. We are still getting details to ascertain whether the line-up of dignitaries is still the same. We are receiving information in bits and pieces, but Mugabe and his entourage in the government had been invited to officiate at the function,” he said.
“We will advise you when we get full confirmation whether the line-up remained the same as we initially programmed it before the postponement.”
Southern Eye is reliably informed that Mugabe would attend the launch of the book series, hence the postponement so that the event does not coincide with his other schedules.
The launch is set for Kariangwe Primary School.
The new development comes at a time the Binga Rural District Council has set up a committee to implement its resolution on the ban of the teaching of Ndebele in Binga schools.
Councillors pulled a shocker about three weeks ago when they passed a resolution banning the teaching of Ndebele in council schools in a move they said was aimed at promoting the Tonga language and preserving traditional values.
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The ban was received with mixed feelings with some saying it was an unwise decision as students would need Ndebele language later in life when seeking employment.
Matabeleland North provincial education director Boithatelo Mnguni dismissed as void the BRDC resolution to ban the teaching of Ndebele at its schools.
Mnguni said only the Primary and Secondary Education ministry had the power to change the national curriculum.
