In an insightful interview with Edupulse Magazine, journalist Collen Chimwauro spoke with Humana People to People tutor, Macallister Tawanda Nyandoro, about the organisation’s pivotal role in enhancing education globally. Humana People to People, a consortium of 29 Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), dedicates itself to the sustainable development of vulnerable communities, with a strong footprint in Sub-Saharan Africa, America, and Asia. The interview shed light on this year’s International Day of Education, celebrated under the theme “Learning for Lasting Peace,” as outlined by UNESCO.
Questions and Answers
Collen: Could you introduce yourself and the organisation?
Macallister Tawanda: My name is Tawanda Macallister Nyandoro, and I am both an alumnus and a current tutor at the Frontline Institute in Zimbabwe, under the auspices of Humana People to People. This global network of organisations unites to safeguard the planet, forge community bonds, and empower people to unleash their potential for positive change. To date, we have touched the lives of over 16.3 million people. The federation comprises 30 independent member associations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, aligning its activities with the UN 2030 agenda.
Collen: What are Humana People to People’s key roles in enhancing global education?
Macallister Tawanda: Our mission is to transform lives through education by reaching out to vulnerable communities, and establishing schools, vocational training centres, teachers’ colleges, and Frontline Institute to educate the youth. We’ve built over 74 schools worldwide, trained over 60,000 primary teachers, and benefited over 2.7 million people through our network. A key focus is reducing the distances young people must travel for education.
Collen: How are you adapting to the growing link between education and technology?
Macallister Tawanda: Although there’s room for improvement, we’ve implemented a digital system known as the Determined Modern Method of Learning, which includes a comprehensive database for all educational content and a library for learner access. We’ve also acquired computers, some through donations, and offer computer training for our teachers and external educators. Our teacher-student ratio stands at 1:40, ensuring accessible computer learning for everyone.
Collen: In light of social media’s risks, how do you safeguard learners from inappropriate content?
Macallister Tawanda: We ensure that the digital content accessible within our institutions is safe and suitable for our learners, protecting them from potentially harmful material.
Collen: What steps are necessary to advance education in Africa?
Macallister Tawanda: Collaboration between governments and NGOs is crucial for addressing the needs of vulnerable communities effectively. Investment in school infrastructure, addressing teacher-student ratios for personalized learning, curriculum development to match global trends, and enhancing access to technology are vital steps for educational improvement in Africa.
Collen: What are your thoughts on this year’s International Day of Education theme, “Learning for Lasting Peace”?
Macallister Tawanda: Education and peace are inherently linked. Nations with higher education levels tend to resolve conflicts diplomatically, unlike their less developed counterparts. I urge all countries to prioritise peace and education system enhancements.
Collen: Where do you see the future of education in Africa in the next five years?
Macallister Tawanda: Predicting the future is challenging due to various socio-economic and political influences. However, I’m optimistic that technological advancements will significantly enhance education in Africa.
Collen: Thank you very much for your time. Your organisation is indeed making a significant impact. Best wishes for your future projects.
Tawanda: Thank you!
This conversation underscores the critical work Humana People to People undertakes in driving educational improvements globally, particularly in vulnerable regions. Their dedication to fostering sustainable development through education is a beacon of hope for future generations, aligning closely with this year’s theme of “Learning for Lasting Peace.”
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