In a resounding call for action, concerned parents and educators are joining forces to address a burgeoning crisis in primary education across the nation. With pass rates plummeting and financial burdens mounting, the education sector finds itself at a critical crossroads. However, amidst the challenges, there are glimmers of hope as government initiatives seek to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of economic constraints.
In recent years, the pass rate in numerous schools has seen a concerning decline. This worrying trend can be attributed, in part, to the escalating demands placed on parents by teachers for exorbitant and often unnecessary charges. These demands, primarily in the form of illegal extra lessons, have placed an untenable financial burden on families, resulting in increased dropouts and students falling behind in their studies.
At the heart of the issue lies the pervasive practice of teachers prioritizing extra lessons over in-class instruction. These supplementary sessions, which come with a hefty price tag of around US$4 per week per student, have become a financial strain for many families, surpassing the cost of school fees in some instances.
“Every child has the right to an education,” emphasizes a concerned parent from Farai Primary School in Chitungwiza. “But the coercive tactics employed by some teachers, including threats and intimidation, have left us with little choice but to acquiesce to their demands.”
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that attendance at these extra lessons is often treated as mandatory, with students who cannot afford to participate being sidelined in the classroom. Such practices not only perpetuate inequality but also undermine the fundamental principles of education as a public good.
Moreover, the proliferation of vending within school premises, with teachers peddling branded merchandise and other items, further erodes the integrity of the education system. This commercialization not only distracts from the primary mission of schools but also raises ethical concerns about the exploitation of students and their families.
In response to these pressing challenges, parents and educators are calling for decisive action from education authorities. They urge the enforcement of regulations to curb the exploitation of parents and students alike and to foster a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.
“We cannot afford to stand idly by as our education system crumbles under the weight of greed and corruption,” asserts a concerned citizen. “It is incumbent upon us all to demand accountability and transparency in our schools.”
As the government intensifies its efforts to address these systemic issues, there is renewed optimism that positive change is on the horizon. By working together, teachers, parents, and policymakers can ensure that the right to education is upheld for all children, paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.
