malvernmugadzikwa
Andwatch Mambo
The GOVERNMENT has launched an investigation into an undisclosed number of schools that have been reported to authorities for allegedly turning away learners for non-payment of tuition fees and refusing to accept Zimbabwe dollar payments.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Mr Moses Mhike confirmed the ongoing probe, saying school heads found guilty of such malpractices could face dismissal.
Last year, the Government set up close to 100 rapid response centres countrywide for parents to report school authorities that unilaterally hike tuition fees, conduct unsanctioned extra lessons and turn away learners for non-payment of fees, among acts of professional misconduct.
After schools recently opened for the |first term, the centres have reportedly been inundated with reports of school authorities either demanding payment exclusively in foreign currency or turning away learners altogether if fees are not settled in full.
Government officials, however, have been undertaking spot checks to assess the levels of compliance.
“It should be noted that all the schools visited during the tour are complying with policy directives and cholera mitigation measures,” said Mr Mhike.
“However, the ministry has received, through the command centres at district, provincial and national levels, reports on some schools violating policy by sending away children from school for non-payment of fees, for example.
“These are being investigated so that appropriate action is taken.”
He said the overwhelming majority of around 10 000 public schools countrywide have not been red-flagged for any malpractices.
“The majority of schools are complying with policy directives, hence creating a conducive environment for learning.
“This is one of the reasons why pass rates increased in the 2023 public examinations across all levels.”
The Government, he said, had set up a toll-free line where parents and guardians could report school officials .
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter