MARTIN MAWAYA
Harare-The government has released comprehensive guidelines ahead of the reopening of schools for Term Two, set to commence on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, with classes running until Friday, 7 August 2025.
In statement, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education urges all pupils, teachers, and staff to return promptly to ensure learning continues without disruption.
It says Parents and guardians should be allowed to pay school fees in any preferred currency, including ZiG or USD, as schools are strictly prohibited from demanding fees exclusively in US dollars.
“Any institution found enforcing such exclusivity will face disciplinary measures,” reads part of the statement.
Regarding fee payments, the Ministry reassured that no pupil will be excluded from classes, examinations, or school activities on account of unpaid fees.
Instead, schools are encouraged to work closely with families to create flexible payment plans, ensuring continued access to education for all students.
On examination registration, all schools have been instructed to facilitate smooth registration for the 2025 O-Level and A-Level exams.
“School administrators must assist eligible candidates promptly and ensure all registrations are completed by the mop-up deadline of 16 May 2025,” says the ministry.
The ministry further reiterated that parents and guardians have the liberty to purchase uniforms and stationery from any supplier that meets school specifications and offers competitive prices.
Meanwhile, the ministry has released the number of school dropouts in 2024, which totaled 49 555 nationwide.
Secondary-level students accounted for the highest number of dropouts, with 33 746, while primary-level students saw 15 809 dropouts.
Mashonaland Central province had the highest number of dropouts at primary level, with 3 052, followed by Midlands with 2 608, while Bulawayo had the least, with 285.
At the secondary level, Midlands topped the dropout numbers with 5 138, followed by Manicaland with 4 842 and Mashonaland West with 4 771.
Bulawayo and Harare had the least numbers of 657 and 1 616, respectively.
The ministry cited pregnancy, long walking distances, and lack of fees as the primary reasons for the high dropout rates.
