Government assures smooth start to 2026 academic year

Zimpapers Writers 

THE Government has declared its full readiness for the start of the 2026 academic year, with millions of learners expected to return to classrooms tomorrow following a rigorous period of nationwide planning and inspections.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo confirmed that all logistical and administrative systems have been finalised to ensure a seamless and professional start to the shortened school term. The announcement follows weeks of intensive co-ordination between educational authorities and school heads to ensure that facilities are prepared and staffing is in place for the first bell.

“We are opening the first term of 2026 and, in terms of preparedness, we are 100 percent ready to kick start the term,” said Minister Moyo.

He expressed confidence that the 2026 academic year will begin without disruption, with teachers prepared to teach and learners ready to learn from the very first day.

Minister Moyo said the ministry has deployed officials across all provinces from day one to monitor school reopening, teacher preparedness and learner safety.

“The Government will be on the ground from day one. I will personally be visiting schools starting in Manicaland and moving to other provinces to ensure that the term begins on a very high note,” he said.

The minister added that teachers have been directed to report for duty tomorrow with approved schemes of work, warning that there will be zero tolerance for unprofessional conduct, particularly as Grade Seven examinations are scheduled to begin in September. 

“This year is very short and there is no time to waste. Teaching and learning must begin immediately,” he said.

A Zimpapers survey conducted at the weekend showed that Form One boarding school pupils had already begun travelling to their new schools, with orientation programmes under way at several institutions. Minister Moyo said Government has also issued clear guidelines to ensure the safe movement of learners, especially those attending boarding schools.

“Travel must be organised through official school or hired buses under teacher supervision, or by parents transporting their children directly,” he said.

On school fees, the minister reiterated that Zimbabwe operates under a multi-currency system, allowing parents to make payments in Zimbabwe Gold or approved foreign currencies.

“What is illegal is forcing parents to pay exclusively in US dollars. Those who violate this policy will face disciplinary action,” he said.

Minister Moyo further warned school authorities against compelling parents to purchase uniforms from specific suppliers or school-run outlets, saying such practices violate Government policy.

To reinforce oversight, the ministry has reactivated district, provincial and national command centres to receive and respond to complaints from parents and guardians.

In a separate statement issued yesterday, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) also cautioned schools against unfair trade practices during the back to school period, urging parents to report any form of coercion or price manipulation.

“The Consumer Protection Commission has noted with concern reports of illegal practices by some schools, which are forcing parents to buy school uniforms or school materials from within the school and designated outlets at inflated prices,” said CPC.

“Such practices constitute unfair trade practices and violate consumer’s right to choose as protected by the Consumer Protection Act in particular section 18(1) where ‘Every consumer has a right to choose goods or services of their preferred choice without any undue influence or pressure from suppliers of goods or services’.”

The commission urged parents and guardians to be aware of their rights as consumers as they prepare for the new academic term.

“CPC, therefore urges parents and guardians to remain vigilant and informed of their fundamental right as protected by law, as they undertake back to school shopping for the new academic term. Consumers are advised not to be forced or coerced into purchasing goods or services they do not want or cannot afford,” said the commission.

CPC called on consumers to report any unfair or illegal conduct encountered during the back to school season.

Meanwhile, parents in Bulawayo were engaged yesterday in last minute preparations, purchasing books, uniforms and stationery ahead of tomorrow’s reopening.

“I am just doing my last round of shopping for the children since schools will be opening tomorrow. I want to make sure that everything is in order before they report,” said Ms Nicole Ndlovu.

Another parent, Mr Thabani Dube, said although the back to school period was financially demanding, he welcomed Government’s assurance of a smooth opening.

“It is always hectic at the last minute, but knowing that schools are ready gives us some peace of mind. We just want our children to start learning without disruptions,” he said.

Ms Nomsa Sibanda, who was buying exercise books and uniforms for her two children, said clarity on payment systems had helped parents plan better.

“At least we know we are not supposed to be forced to pay in US dollars or buy uniforms from one place. That guidance from Government really helps parents like us,” she said.