Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Zimpapers Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged parents, school authorities, transport operators and the general public to strictly observe safety and security measures as schools open for the 2026 first term.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the school opening period was often marked by increased traffic volumes and heightened security risks, making learner safety a priority for all stakeholders.
“As schools open for the 2026 first term proceedings, the Zimbabwe Republic Police appeals to parents, guardians, school authorities, transport operators and the general public to prioritise the safety and security of learners,” he said.
Comm Nyathi called on transport operators ferrying children to and from school to ensure that their vehicles are duly certified as roadworthy before being allowed on the roads.
Drivers were also urged to avoid speeding and strictly comply with all road rules and regulations to prevent road traffic accidents.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges all transport operators taking children to various schools to ensure that their vehicles are duly certified as roadworthy before use and movement on the roads,” said Comm Nyathi.
He also warned against the overloading of buses and other vehicles used to transport learners, as the practice poses serious safety risks.
“School authorities and transporters must ensure that buses and other vehicles used for the transportation of learners are not overloaded under any circumstances,” Comm Nyathi said.
Parents and school authorities were further advised to ensure that learners do not travel at night, as night journeys expose children to increased risks, including road traffic accidents and criminal activities.
With most parts of the country experiencing seasonal rains, Comm Nyathi cautioned learners and motorists against attempting to cross flooded rivers, streams or bridges, either on foot or in vehicles.
He urged school authorities and drivers to closely monitor weather conditions and road accessibility to safeguard schoolchildren.
Comm Nyathi advised parents and school authorities to deposit fees and other tuition-related payments through banks and other financial institutions and said keeping large sums of cash at school premises attracted criminal elements and increased the risk of robbery.
“This precautionary measure will help minimise the risk of robbery and theft, as keeping large sums of cash at school premises attracts criminal elements leading to armed robbery incidents,” he said.
He further urged parents and the general public to remain vigilant during the school opening period and to promptly report any suspicious or criminal activities to the nearest police station.
Schools nationwide reopen tomorrow for the first term of the 2026 academic year, with police emphasising the need for collective responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of learners.
