Online Reporter
Herald Reporters
GOVERNMENT has warned schools that fail to accept fees payment in ZIG, as the second term begins today.
In guidelines for schools reopening for Term Two released yesterday, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said all learners, teachers and staff are expected to return promptly to ensure uninterrupted learning.
It also said the ZiG remains legal tender for school transactions, alongside other currencies in the multi-currency basket.
“Parents/guardians may pay fees in any currency of choice (ZIG, USD, etc). Schools must not demand exclusive USD payments, and non-compliance will result in disciplinary action,” reads the statement.
“The exchange rate that is determined in the foreign exchange market by banks is the one that should be used to guide the pricing of all other goods and services in the economy.
“Therefore, no other business entity (schools included) outside the interbank market should determine the exchange rate.”
Parents and/or guardians were reminded that they are contractually obligated to pay approved fees and levies to support school operations, but the ministry reiterated that no learner should be excluded from classes, exams, or activities due to unpaid fees.
All schools were also challenged to ensure smooth registration for 2025 O-Level and A-Level examinations.
“Administrators are directed to assist all eligible candidates without delay up until the closing date for ZIMSEC examinations mop-up registration exercise, which is May 16, 2025,” reads the statement.
During the Senate’s Question and Answer session on Thursday last week, the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Mrs Angeline Gata, also warned schools against charging fees exclusively in foreign currency.
“Our country is using a multi-currency regime, so it’s illegal for any school not to accept the the local currency, the ZiG.
“We have our offices at district, provincial and national level so parents and guardians can report such schools to any of those offices,” she said.
Deputy Minister Gata said the ministry is prepared for the June examinations and has plans to address learner dropouts.
She explained that they have devised an early warning system to identify children likely to drop out of school.
Reasons for dropouts include early pregnancies, bullying, long distances and financial issues.
Deputy Minister Gata also thanked the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, for initiating the production of reusable sanitary wear, which benefits girls from disadvantaged communities.
In an interview yesterday, Primary and Secondary Education Ministry spokesperson Mr Taungana Ndoro confirmed that preparations for the second term opening are going on smoothly.
He noted that everybody is making sure that they pay their school fees and get their uniforms ready, and they have not faced any challenges.
In Harare yesterday, The Herald visited pick up points like Robert Mugabe Square and Mbare bus terminus where school buses were filling up with students wearing cozy winter attire while parents grappled with their children’s belongings.
Glen Norah resident Mrs Tendai Gondora said schools are now offering winter gear, including uniforms, which saves parents from the stress of finding and purchasing the right winter items.
“It is a relief to know that the school is now providing winter gear, including uniforms. We no longer have to brave the cold, scouring shops for the right winter items.
“It certainly eases the pressure during this busy period, and it is one less thing for us to worry about in these financially challenging times,” she said.
The onset of the school term brings with it the usual rush to prepare, but this term, that rush comes with a winter gear.
Eden Graceland School Form Four student Tinotenda Murimi offered a positive outlook on the adoption of the Heritage-based curriculum.
“As schools open, adoption of the Heritage-based curriculum is crucial in preserving our cultural roots while fostering a sense of pride and respect for our history and traditions.
“I believe this curriculum will play a pivotal role in shaping future generations of Zimbabweans who will be deeply connected to their heritage and culture,” he said.
Yesterday, Harare was buzzing as parents purchased winter wear and stationery ahead of the second term.
Bookshops and school uniform shops and vendors reported a surge in sales.
Vendors lined the streets, particularly around Robert Mugabe Road and Leopold Takawira Street, selling their wares.
Given the chilly mornings and evenings being experienced in most parts of the country, most parents were buying woollen hats, gloves, scarves, jerseys and winter anoraks.
Parents noted that prices for uniforms had not increased significantly, although prices at schools remain on the higher side, with some parents turning to enterprising women and youths who sew in town.
The ministry said parents and guardians must be allowed to buy uniforms and stationery wherever they find them cheaper in line with the schools’ specifications.
Ms Amanda Chivhima of Kuwadzana, Harare, said she prefers buying school uniforms in the second term because there is no rush.
While there was an increase in foot traffic, some vendors reported slower business compared to first-term preparations.
Mrs Moleen Munaku, a school uniform vendor, said business is much slower than in January. Overall, the anticipation for the school opening was palpable yesterday, with preparations well underway and parents actively engaging in back-to-school shopping.
