The 5th Edition of the National Annual Science, Sports and Arts Festival (NASSAF) was held in early October at Chancellor Primary School in Mutare, where learners from all ten provinces converged to celebrate creativity, innovation, and practical learning. The festival ran under the theme “Promoting Skills Development through the Heritage-Based Curriculum” and was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Angeline Gata, who served as Guest of Honour.
Hosted by Manicaland Province, this year’s NASSAF highlighted how the Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC) is shaping a new generation of learners capable of applying classroom knowledge to real-life contexts. The festival featured a range of exhibitions and performances in science and technology, ICT innovations, food technology, arts, crafts, design, and music — all demonstrating how education in Zimbabwe is moving toward practical skills development.
Hon. Gata commended the Ministry’s continued commitment to developing competent, innovative learners equipped with the skills needed for national growth. She said NASSAF remains a vital part of Zimbabwe’s education system, providing a national platform for pupils to showcase and refine their talents through hands-on learning.
She said, “The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education considers NASSAF as an essential component of the Heritage-Based Curriculum. The festivals are aimed at promoting active participation in science, sport and arts through activities and exhibitions that demonstrate and showcase the skills, knowledge and values being acquired by pupils during the teaching and learning process.”
Her remarks reflect the Ministry’s broader goal of linking education to production through a curriculum that draws strength from Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage. The Deputy Minister emphasised that the Heritage-Based Curriculum is not just about preserving tradition but about transforming it into modern economic and creative opportunities. Through NASSAF, pupils are being encouraged to innovate using locally available materials and indigenous knowledge systems, while also embracing science and technology as tools for development.
Hon. Gata said the 2025 theme aligns closely with the Government’s national development vision, particularly Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritise human capital growth and innovation-driven education. She urged learners to remain focused, disciplined, and guided by national values, warning against distractions such as drug and substance abuse, which threaten to derail youth potential.
“This year’s theme reminds us that our past is not a limitation but a foundation. Our heritage is rich with wisdom, creativity and development. From traditional weaving, stone carving, pottery, iron smelting and indigenous agriculture to story-telling, music and dance — these are not just cultural expressions, but are skills that can build businesses,” said Hon. Gata.
The 2025 NASSAF reaffirmed the Ministry’s vision of building an education system that blends knowledge, culture, and creativity to produce learners ready for both life and work. The Deputy Minister also announced that the 6th Edition of NASSAF will be hosted by Matabeleland South Province in 2026, continuing the festival’s legacy of celebrating excellence in science, sports, and the arts.
