Headmasters gather in Victoria Falls to tackle drug and substance abuse

MORE than 1 500 secondary school headmasters from across the country are gathered in Victoria Falls for the annual National Association of Secondary Heads (Nash) 2024 conference.

The conference is being held under the theme: “Fight against drug and substance abuse.”

This comes at a time when the country is making serious efforts to fight the scourge of drugs and substance abuse, and President Mnangagwa recently launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) in a bold move to tackle the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse.

The comprehensive plan, developed through a collaborative effort involving various Government ministries, agencies, and stakeholders, aims to create “A Healthy and Secure Nation Free from Illicit Drugs and Substances” over the next six years. The plan also calls for the strengthening of supply chain disruption and the destruction of raw materials used for the production of illicit drugs and substances.

Additionally, it challenges social media influencers and content producers to be responsible with the material they produce, and urges local authorities and real estate developers to ensure adherence to relevant regulations and land-use plans.

Nash has taken it upon itself to champion the cause, help Government win the war and achieve a drug free Zimbabwe.

Nash president Mr Arthur Maphosa said: “Your space is attacked by drugs and dangerous substances and in some instances you may feel hopeless. To survive ,you must, not may ,need to be courageous.”

He said teachers’ work is not just for human recognition, but to honour God.

“As Heads, you can apply this principle by striving for excellence in leadership and management, serving students, teachers, and the community with dedication and passion, creating a positive and supportive learning environment and trusting that your hard work will bear fruit and make a lasting impact.

“Courageous conversation refers to open and honest communication that takes place in a safe and respectful environment, where individuals can share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment or retribution,” he said.

Mr Maphosa said by engaging in courageous conversations, individuals can build trust, foster deeper relationships, and drive personal and help build Zimbabwe based on excellence in education and empowering the next generation.

He implored school heads and teachers in general to be resilient from public rebuke and wanton attacks from misinformed stakeholders. He urged heads to continue to fight for Basic Education Assistance Module payments to not only be paid, but be paid on time for survival of both schools and needy children.

“Today, we come together to discuss the future of our schools and the young minds we shape. Let us embrace this opportunity to share ideas, learn from each other, and chart a path forward for our students.

“As Heads of schools, we bear the responsibility of nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and citizens. We must prioritize academic excellence, sporting dynamism,development, and emotional intelligence. Let us strive to create inclusive environments that foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.Let us not think outside the box, let us think without the box. Let us not be cry babies. Let us be bold to make decisions within the confines of the law,” he said.

Mr Maphosa said teachers were working under harsh conditions and deserve better salaries and conditions. He said centralised approval of fees is an impediment to the smooth running of a school and urged schools to use proper channels to lobby Government. He implored the Zimbabwe Examination Council to bring services closer to the client by opening sub offices in each district to cut on travelling costs.

He said circulars from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and Public Service Commission should not be thrown in haphazardly but systematically sent. He however advised heads to strive to meet deadlines and to work together with National Association of Primary Heads. He said Nash was elated that sporting activities had resumed after Covid-19. Mr Maphosa said Nash was indebted to the support of partners and stakeholders particularly ZB bank, Gramsol, Edutec, AFC, Eco bank, CBZ and others.

-@ncubeleon