Chronicle EditorAngeline Gata
The right to education is a fundamental principle enshrined in our Constitution and supported by international law. Section 75 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, guarantees every citizen access to free and compulsory basic education. It emphasizes quality education that enables individuals to realize their potential and contribute to society.
The right is protected without discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The State is required to take measures to ensure all children can access educational opportunities, promoting relevant skills for the 21st century and ensuring inclusivity for all, including individuals with disabilities which is what Zimbabwe is pursuing in line with Vision 2030 by our President Dr E D Mnangagwa.
Unfortunately, we are witnessing a troubling trend: some teachers are charging students for extra lessons, an act that is not only illegal but also undermines our collective efforts to create an equitable educational environment.
The practice of charging for extra lessons violates several provisions of the Education Act and the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
Internationally, this issue aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” Charging for extra lessons contradicts this global commitment to inclusivity and equity.
This practice is also at odds with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which seeks to empower all Zimbabweans by providing access to quality education.
His philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind” emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in education. When teachers demand payment for extra lessons, they effectively exclude many learners, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby hindering our national development goals.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is committed to combating this issue.
We have established systematic channels for reporting such misconduct. Parents and guardians are encouraged to report any incidents of teachers charging for extra lessons to:
• District Level: Schools Inspector or District Schools Inspectors
• Provincial Level: Provincial Education Director
• Head Office: The Minister, Deputy Minister, Permanent Secretary, or any department within the Ministry located at Queen Lozikeyi House
Furthermore, parents may also engage law enforcement, as this practice constitutes fraud.
Teachers are public servants on a salary and have sworn to uphold the labour laws and ethical standards of their profession. Demanding extra fees for lessons that should be provided as part of their contracted duties is a breach of these standards.
*Honourable Angeline Gata is the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education.
Online Reporter