Zimbabwe is preparing to introduce an anti-sanctions curriculum across its education system in a bid to raise awareness about the effects of Western-imposed economic measures on the nation.
The Government has tasked Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) with designing the syllabus, which will soon be integrated into schools, universities, teacher training colleges, and community programs. Officials say the initiative aims to equip citizens with a deeper understanding of the economic and social impact of sanctions and foster a spirit of resilience.
CAES Executive Director Martin Zharare confirmed the development, saying the organisation had been officially mandated through the recently gazetted Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Act.
“Through the PVO certificate, we have been given the responsibility to create a comprehensive anti-sanctions curriculum. This will help Zimbabweans understand the wide-ranging effects of sanctions imposed by the United States, the United Kingdom, and their allies,” Zharare said.
He stressed that sanctions had hurt sectors such as health care and slowed national economic growth, adding that citizens must be informed of these consequences.
“Our people deserve to know how sanctions have disrupted the economy and affected their daily lives,” he said.
To ensure the curriculum is effective, CAES will work closely with education experts and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
Founded in 2014 as a grassroots advocacy movement, CAES has spent nearly a decade campaigning for the removal of economic restrictions on Zimbabwe. The organisation recently achieved full registration as a Private Voluntary Organisation, a milestone Zharare said reflected the Government’s commitment to empowering citizens.
CAES Education Officer James Zezai Katonje explained that the curriculum will cover all educational levels, from early childhood development to teacher training.
“We are conducting extensive research to prepare content for every stage of education – from ECD to Grade 7, and from secondary school through to teacher training institutions,” Katonje said.
He added that the program will align with Zimbabwe’s Heritage Education 5.0 philosophy, which promotes patriotism, innovation, and self-reliance.
“The goal is to raise children who understand their country, the impact sanctions have had, and what steps are needed to build a stronger nation. It will help our people become more self-sufficient and less dependent on outside support,” he said.
The anti-sanctions syllabus is expected to reach not only students but also adults through community outreach programs, encouraging broad participation in the national conversation around sanctions and their effects.
