Government cracks down on unregistered schools

THE Government has warned that stern action will be taken against unregistered schools operating illegally.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Torerayi Moyo, issued a stern warning to unregistered schools operating in backyards.

“The Government is rolling out several initiatives to transform the country’s education sector, including the construction of new schools and upgrading existing infrastructure. Despite the Government’s efforts to transform the country’s education system, some individuals are not taking heed of calls to formalise their operations,” he said.

Minister Moyo stressed the need for private players to abide by the law.
“We have also allowed private players, individuals and corporates, everyone through a public-private partnership to provide the best education in Zimbabwe. My message to those who want to introduce private colleges is that we want them to regularise their operations; they need to register with the ministry,” he said.

Minister Moyo emphasised that unregistered schools must adhere to the country’s laws, adding that as regulators, the Ministry demands compliance.

“We are the regulators, so they are going to respect the laws of the country. Those who are not registered should not open their schools because the law will be applied against illegal operations,” he said.

As part of a broader effort to enhance the country’s education system, the Government has also unveiled a series of initiatives, including the construction of new schools, the upgrading of existing infrastructure, and the improvement of foundational literacy and numeracy.

**Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo**

The focus on equity and inclusivity is a key component of these reforms, which aim to ensure that all students have access to quality education and safe learning environments.
The Government has also committed to digital transformation within the education sector, prioritising student outcomes and overall system improvement.

Minister Moyo said the Government plans to establish as many schools as possible and the latest information indicates a shortage of close to 2 800 schools.

“The shortage has seen the proliferation and mushrooming of schools, which we want to define as private. The private schools must be registered with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” he said.
Minister Moyo added that the Ministry has also assigned officials to come up with a paper that will establish how schools are operating illegally, district by district and from one province to another.