Online Reporter
Education is a fundamental right, not a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. The recent gazetting of Statutory Instrument 13 of 2025 by the Government is a progressive step towards achieving true inclusivity in our education system. By ensuring that no child is barred from school due to unpaid fees or lack of a birth certificate, Zimbabwe is taking a bold stance in upholding the right to education for all.
For years, many children have been left behind, unable to access education because their parents could not afford school fees or because bureaucratic hurdles delayed the issuance of birth certificates.
This new policy sends a clear message: every child deserves a chance to learn, regardless of their financial or legal circumstances. It aligns with the Government’s commitment to achieving universal education and ensuring that no child is left behind.
Furthermore, the provision for pregnant schoolgirls to continue their education is a welcome development. Too often, teenage mothers have been forced to drop out of school, cutting short their prospects for a better future. Providing psycho-social support and allowing them to continue with their education acknowledges their right to education and empowers them to build brighter futures.
However, while this policy is commendable, its successful implementation remains a critical concern. Schools will require additional resources to accommodate children who cannot pay fees, and mechanisms must be put in place to support institutions in maintaining quality education.
Inclusive education is not just about allowing children into classrooms; it is about giving them equal opportunities to succeed.
This policy lays the groundwork, but continued commitment from the Government, educators, and society at large will be essential in making it a reality. No child should ever be denied the right to learn.
Education for all is not just a slogan—it is the way forward.
Blessing Chizhande