Demystifying Misconceptions on Key Tenets of Quality Basic Education in Chikomba District, Zimbabwe: A Systematic Literature Review

Educational stakeholders in Zimbabwe have been expressing sentiments on deteriorating basic quality education. Accordingly, this led to continuous updates of curriculum peculiarly over the past decade to embrace qualities of basic education. Thus, this research paper sought to: explore fundamental features of quality basic education, analyse challenges impeding it and propose strategies to overcome obstacles for quality basic education in Chikomba District, Zimbabwe. Research methodology adopted was Systematic Literature Review. A comprehensive 7 steps research design was crafted from formulation of review questions to interpretation of results. To enhance accuracy and consistency, a well detailed structured critical Systematic Review Chart was followed. Twenty-five sources were finally selected and reviewed from a total of 35. These were government publications, journals, books, articles, published research papers, newspapers and international organisations’ reports. Validity and reliability were enhanced through utilisation of in-depth analysis of data collection methods, administration of check list and use of three experienced reviewers. The findings revealed that, basic quality education should encompass qualified teachers; competency-based curriculum; inclusivity; learner’s engagement; innovativeness and creativity; practical surviving skills; digital infrastructure; abundant resources and quality assurance systems. 50% of sources reflected economic challenges, 20% technological hindrances, 10% unconducive educational policies, 15% socio-cultural barriers and 5% indicated geo-physical factors. The research proposes strategies which are linked to recommendations for attainment of quality basic education. These include: stakeholder engagement, digital infrastructure, resources mobilisation, training and employment of more teachers. Furthermore, regular competency curriculum review, quality assurance, supportive educational and inclusivity policies towards women and disabled. Conclusively, the research noted that qualities of basic education are multifaceted and Chikomba District will be used as a field for data collection to test the hypothesis.