Shingirai Manyengavana
With a warm and encouraging smile, one Courage Mabanja records educational videos on his smartphone.
He effortlessly explains complex mathematics concepts, like solving index equations, in a way that students can easily understand.
Using the magic of technology, Courage shares these educational videos on Facebook and WhatsApp.
With a few taps on his phone, his instructional videos are sent over the internet, reaching out to students even beyond the Limpopo River.
He offers subjects such as mathematics, English, Science, History, and Geography at the ordinary level.
Also known as Sir Kaja, from Sakubva, Maonde, the tutor is breaking down barriers to education by utilizing digital platforms.
When asked why he chose these platforms, Courage said:
“I chose them because they are affordable, and students can easily download and save my videos for future reference.
“It has transformed my teaching, making education more accessible to all.”
Courage said another advantage of the online teaching approach is that students can replay lessons.
“These videos allow students to learn at their own pace and convenience.
“My approach to teaching using online platforms has made a significant impact in my community because I’m dedicated to providing an inclusive education experience.”
Laizah Mushonga, a proud parent, shares the inspiring success story of her daughter benefiting from Courage’s teachings.
“I’m glad that I made the right choice of enrolling my daughter with Sir Kaja.
“She has been home for the past 13 years, but she managed to enroll, in six subjects and passed all of them,’’ highlighted Ms Mushonga.
Courage’s teaching method also enables him to earn a decent income.
On average, he has 75 students attending face-to-face classes each month, and he can reach over a hundred students online.
Each student pays a minimum fee of $10.
Courage highlights that students can easily access his lessons during lunch breaks or after work, allowing individuals with multiple responsibilities to engage with his educational videos.
“My video lessons are designed to be brief, taking up no more than ten minutes per day. They are clear and easy to understand.
Many people find them engaging because I summarize the lessons in a way that makes them easier to comprehend,” he adds
Courage firmly believes that technology will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Zimbabwe.
He emphasized that technology can transcend borders.
Beauty Mabanja, 43, is another individual who greatly benefited from Courage’s online lessons.
In 2016, she relocated to South Africa without any educational qualifications and took on menial jobs.
However, she decided to further her education.
“I received support through WhatsApp video calls, particularly for Mathematics and Science.
“During that time, I worked as a house girl and studied math late into the night and early morning.
“Through online learning, I successfully passed five subjects and now I am a qualified teacher, thanks to Sir Kaja’s lessons,” shared Beauty.
Courage Mabanja’s efforts in utilizing digital platforms for education have revolutionized the accessibility and affordability of quality education.
As technology continues to shape the future of education, Courage’s inspiring journey serves as a testimony to the power of online learning in Zimbabwe and beyond.
