Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-04-13 06:00:00
In Manicaland Province, several schools have defiantly ignored a Government directive to suspend vacation school activities during this April holiday. Despite the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s clear instruction to halt lessons, schools in Manicaland, including Baring Primary School, Dangamvura Primary School, Murahwa Primary School, and Rock of Ages, have continued with normal lessons.
The report from the state-owned Manica Post indicates that some schools are conducting lessons for Forms Four, Five, and Six students, while others have all streams of learners attending classes as usual. Parents and guardians are being asked to pay US$1 per day per learner in primary school and US$10 per subject for secondary school students. Private schools, in response to increased enrollment after some public schools complied with the directive, are charging as much as US$20 per subject for secondary school learners.
An authoritative figure at a private school in Mutare, speaking anonymously to The Manica Post, revealed that they chose to ignore the Government directive in order to prepare their learners for the upcoming Cambridge examinations. This decision to prioritize exam preparation over compliance with the ministry’s directive highlights the conflicting interests at play within the education sector.
The controversy surrounding the continuation of vacation school in Manicaland has sparked debate among parents, guardians, and education authorities. While some argue that the additional academic support provided during vacation school is beneficial for students, others raise concerns about the lack of adherence to official directives and the financial burden placed on families.
The situation in Manicaland serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics within the education system, where schools, parents, and authorities must navigate competing priorities and responsibilities. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will address the defiance exhibited by schools in the province and uphold the integrity of its directives.
In the midst of these developments, it is crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being and academic success of students. Collaboration and constructive dialogue between schools, parents, and authorities are essential in ensuring that education remains a top priority and that all learners have equal access to quality learning opportunities. Only through a collective effort can the challenges facing the education sector in Manicaland and beyond be effectively addressed and resolved.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
