malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE Government will this week begin publicly naming and shaming school officials who are demanding tuition fees exclusively in foreign currency, in contravention of exchange control regulations.
The officials also face expulsion from the public service.
Eleven unnamed schools were red-flagged, while a headmaster was reportedly dismissed last week for the malpractices.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education director of communications and advocacy Mr Taungana Ndoro said: “Regarding the release of names of individuals involved, we would like to inform you that, as of now, we are focused on taking corrective measures and implementing a comprehensive publicity campaign to ensure that schools comply with the directive to accept ZiG.
“However, we want to emphasise that beginning the week of May 13, we will adopt a strict approach by publicly naming and shaming those found in violation of the directive.”
The ministry, he said, was engaging law-enforcement agencies to ensure that schools comply.
“In doing so, we will utilise all available law-enforcement agencies, including the ZRP (Zimbabwe Republic Police), Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and the Financial Intelligence Unit, to ensure appropriate actions are taken,” he added.
“It is important to note that any individuals found to be in contravention of the directive may face serious consequences.
“This includes being brought before the courts and undergoing disciplinary measures as stipulated by the public service regulations. These measures can range from suspension from duty to dismissal from employment, depending on the severity of the offence.”
The Government, he added, was committed to upholding the integrity of Zimbabwe’s education system.
Last year, the Government set up close to 100 rapid response centres countrywide for parents to report school authorities who unilaterally hike tuition fees, as well as turn away learners for non-payment of fees, among other malpractices.
More than 250 officials in the Education ministry were assigned to handle cases of alleged misconduct by school authorities.
Meanwhile, the Government also plans to recruit more teachers this year to meet the growing demand for educators.
“In our ongoing efforts to enhance the education system, we are continuously working towards recruiting more teachers each term, within the limits set by the Treasury. Our goal is to address the teacher shortage and improve the quality of education provided to our learners.”
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter