Imagine a customs officer no longer confined to traditional classroom training, but empowered to acquire the latest trade facilitation knowledge through carefully designed online courses supplemented by field guidance. This vision is becoming reality in Zimbabwe through initiatives led by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
Background: WCO Mercator Program and Customs Modernization
Under the WCO Mercator Programme framework, the organization conducted a technical workshop from September 4-8, 2017 at the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Training Institute in Harare. The primary objective was to assist ZIMRA in integrating WCO's e-learning modules into existing training programs, creating a blended learning approach that combines the flexibility of digital education with the interactivity of in-person instruction.
Workshop Implementation and Core Components
The workshop focused on three key areas:
- E-learning Platform Deployment: Participants established the technical infrastructure for online learning, including server configuration, software installation, user management systems, and content upload protocols.
- Train-the-Trainer Program: ZIMRA instructors received specialized coaching on utilizing digital tools and hybrid teaching methodologies. This included techniques for facilitating online discussions, designing complementary in-person sessions, and implementing assessment strategies.
- Policy Framework Alignment: The workshop conducted a comprehensive review of ZIMRA's training strategies to ensure compatibility with WCO's Customs Capacity Building Guidelines, examining curriculum design, evaluation standards, and instructor qualification requirements.
Advantages of the Blended Learning Model
The hybrid approach offers multiple benefits:
- Enhanced training efficiency through self-paced digital modules
- Reduced operational costs by minimizing classroom dependencies
- Improved knowledge retention via interactive online resources combined with practical field application
- Facilitated peer-to-peer learning through digital collaboration platforms
Implementation Timeline and Institutional Commitment
With strong support from management and training staff, ZIMRA prepared to launch the blended learning program by late 2017, with plans to expand the methodology to additional courses. This initiative represents a significant advancement in Zimbabwe's customs professional development framework.
International Support and Future Directions
The workshop received funding from the UK government through Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), in collaboration with WCO and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Looking ahead, ZIMRA aims to:
- Regularly update digital course content to reflect evolving trade regulations
- Expand its roster of certified hybrid learning instructors
- Develop comprehensive program evaluation metrics
- Extend the blended model to specialized training areas including tariff administration and anti-smuggling operations
Through these sustained efforts, ZIMRA positions itself as a potential model for customs modernization across Africa, contributing to both national economic development and international trade efficiency.