Online Reporter
“I’M pledging US$10 towards the fine for the teacher who got arrested for beating a naughty child.” That fiery promise from Bulawayo resident Malvin T Mutipforo captures the simmering frustration of Zimbabweans over what they call “runaway disrespect” among schoolchildren.
Parents, teachers, and netizens alike are demanding the return of corporal punishment in schools. B-Metro’s street poll of 10 random citizens in Bulawayo’s CBD found eight in favour of restoring the cane. Online, the results were even more striking: 90 percent support the move, with only 10 percent opposed. The clarion call is simple: “Beat or teach?”
The anger comes after a series of shocking incidents. Early this year, a pupil at Tredgold Junior unleashed a torrent of vulgarities at classmates and teachers. Last week in Bulawayo’s western suburbs, a gang of boys smashed classroom windows over a dispute about a girlfriend. Parents are alarmed at the disrespect, vulgarity, and violence erupting among children who seem untouchable.
Many argue that discipline is key. Cowdray Park resident Bekezela Nyoni fumed, “The Bible says ‘spare the rod and spoil the child.’ Beat them, but do not injure them.” Mutipforo went further, pledging cash to the teacher’s bail and warning that the next generation will be “serious nonsense” if discipline is not enforced. Others like Masihle M Mpofu even stated, “Feel free to beat my child. If they complain, I’ll beat them again.”
Social media is littered with similar sentiments. Glenda Ndlovu warned, “These young mothers are slowly killing the future generation. In five years, there will be no respectful children left.” From Nkulumane, Mxolisi Mahlangu called for balance: “There is a difference between discipline and abuse. Let the law return but don’t beat children until they have marks to show.” Southwold resident Macfelis Ncube echoed the call, emphasising limits to avoid cruelty.
Opponents, however, remain firm. Bradfield’s Mthokozisi Mahlangu warned, “The law must not return, for the safety of children at school.” Others call for positive discipline and guidance rather than physical punishment.
This debate is not about glorifying violence.
It is about arresting a growing culture of disrespect, defiance, and vandalism. Zimbabwean children need boundaries both at home and in school. Teachers need support to maintain order, and parents want the tools to instill respect and responsibility.
Zimbabweans are demanding a return to controlled, measured discipline in schools. The stick, strap, or cane must come back —but with strict rules, transparency, and accountability. Without it, the next generation risks becoming harder to teach, harder to guide, and far more dangerous to the society they are supposed to build.
