Mthokozisi Moyo brings digital learning to rural children

By Nobukhosi Ndlovu

From rural classrooms to the digital world, Mthokozisi Moyo is transforming the way children learn in Matabeleland, proving that talent and ambition are not limited by geography.

Growing up in Nkayi District, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Action to Achieve Prosperity Trust (CAAP Trust) Mthokozisi Moyo faced the challenges common to rural communities, limited educational resources, scarce opportunities, and little exposure to the wider world.

Today, he is transforming the lives of rural children through CAAP Trust, an organization founded to empower young people, expand access to education, and strengthen community resilience across Matabeleland.

CAAP Trust focuses on bridging the rural-urban divide by providing access to quality education, digital resources, practical skills, and mentorship. Initiatives under the organization’s vision include the Bridge Pi Digital Library, which brings thousands of offline digital books and learning materials to schools without internet access, and the Youth Skills Development & Innovation Programme, which equips young people with technical, digital, and entrepreneurial skills. Through these programs, rural learners have designed hands-free handwashing stations during the Covid-19 pandemic and repaired school furniture, demonstrating that youth empowerment drives innovation and community resilience.

The impact of these initiatives is evident in schools across Matabeleland. Nomsa Ndlovu, head of Setshanke Primary, one of the schools where the digital library is being implemented, said, “We are so grateful to have the library because it now bridges the gap between an urban and a rural learner.” Ndlovu said, expressing gratitude for the implementation of the initiative in the school, highlighting that it came at a very crucial time.

One of the teachers of the school also added, “The digital library has helped the students understand everything they learn. They use the library as a learning aid because it contains a lot of information.”

At the recent prize-giving ceremony at Setshanke, Moyo shared his personal journey and encouraged students to embrace their potential. “And to our little graduates, be proud, be brave, and keep dreaming. You may be small, but your future is big. Grade One is waiting for you, and the world is opening its doors,” he told the children.

During his speech, Moyo shared five key messages to guide the learners on their journey. He encouraged them to know themselves, understanding their strengths and weaknesses, as success is easier when they build on their abilities. He urged them to have clear goals, reminding them that without direction, any path will take them anywhere.

He spoke frankly about the importance of perseverance, saying that setbacks are part of progress and failure is the tuition fee we pay for growth. Moyo also highlighted the need to respect and uplift girls and women, stressing that gender equity is crucial, and that each additional year of a girl’s education increases her future income while reducing harmful practices such as early marriage.

He then inspired the learners to be proudly Zimbabwean, reminding them that resilience, intelligence, and creativity are part of their national identity, and that while challenges may come, their character and potential are lasting and will guide them to success.

Mthokozisi Moyo also applauded the Government of Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC), highlighting its role in grounding children in identity, dignity, and responsibility. “Our identity, values, and traditions are not obstacles, they are foundations for greatness,” he said. He praised HBC’s hybrid assessment model and school-based projects for recognising the unique gifts of every child, whether in innovation, agriculture, leadership, creativity, or academics.

For Mthokozisi Moyo, empowering rural children is not just about teaching skills, it is about fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of possibility. ” One’s background should never limit potential. Every child can rise beyond their circumstances,” he said.

Mthokozisi Moyo, a community psychologist, transformational leader, and advocate for youth development, he has combined his professional experience in education and training to create programs that equip children with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to succeed. His leadership has earned both local and international recognition, including the Zimbabwe Best Western Award in 2021 and the Outstanding Negotiator Award in New York 2024.