Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
Edline Dzingai, a teacher from Parkview Junior School, has joined a group of concerned educators in speaking out against being forced to attend political rallies organized by the Zanu-PF party.
As the harmonized elections, which are set for next year, draw near, tensions rise as teachers express their frustration over being compelled to participate in political events instead of focusing on their profession.
Dzingai, a respected educator, emphasizes that teachers have a responsibility to prioritize their role as educators, rather than being involved in political matters. “We are here to shape young minds and provide quality education, not to be used as political tools,” she states, highlighting the teachers’ stance against being coerced into attending Zanu-PF rallies.
The teachers have made several attempts to address their concerns with the authorities but have encountered obstacles and received no assistance. Dzingai expresses her disappointment, stating, “We have approached the relevant authorities seeking their intervention, but unfortunately, our pleas have fallen on deaf ears.”
Recognizing the importance of collective action, the group of teachers has also sought support from their unions to lodge their concerns formally. They believe that by uniting their voices, they can amplify their message and advocate for change. “We are hopeful that our unions will take up our cause and fight for our rights as educators,” Dzingai added.
She further revealed that she had been particularly targeted because of her boyfriend who was active in opposition politics.
“My situation is more complicated because my boyfriend is involved in opposition politics, they actually force marched me to one of their rallies and I was even beaten during one of the meetings as they believed I was also into opposition politics,” she said.
The teachers’ concerns highlight the need for a clear distinction between education and politics. They argue that students deserve a safe and unbiased learning environment, where teachers can focus on imparting knowledge and critical thinking skills without being influenced by political agendas.
The situation at Parkview Junior School has drawn attention to the broader issue of teachers’ involvement in political events across the country. Education should remain a non-partisan sector, allowing teachers to nurture young minds and foster an environment of free thinking and open dialogue.
As the harmonized elections draw nearer, the call for educators to be exempt from mandatory political participation grows louder. The hope is that the authorities will recognize the teachers’ concerns and take appropriate action, ensuring that the education system remains free from political interference.
It remains to be seen whether the collective efforts of the teachers and their unions will bring about the desired change and protect the integrity of education in Zimbabwe. As the nation holds its breath, teachers like Edline Dzingai continue to fight for the rights of educators and the future of their students.
Online Reporter