Beyond donations: Assessing the impact and sustainability of presidential ICT initiatives in Zimbabwean Schools

The introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into Zimbabwean schools through presidential donations represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide. While access to ICT equipment has improved, questions remain regarding sustainability, effective usage, and long-term impact on educational outcomes. This paper systematically reviews the effects of presidential ICT interventions in Zimbabwean schools, focusing on access, equity, teacher readiness, infrastructure challenges, and educational performance. Through an extensive literature review and analysis of national reports, it is evident that while gains were made in introducing technology, sustainability and integration issues limit the overall success of the interventions. Strategic recommendations are offered to enhance future ICT initiatives.