MARTIN MAWAYA
HARARE – The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched an immediate inquiry and will take appropriate disciplinary action against the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) for instructing schools to collect a $1 fee from each student for the 2025 Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe.
In a press statement, the ministry clarified that adequate funding has already been secured through the national budget for all Independence Day commemorations and related activities.
The ministry emphasized that there is no requirement for schools, learners, parents, or community members to contribute financially to these events.
“The letter issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector requesting such contributions is unauthorized, unwarranted, and without basis in Ministry policy,” the statement read.
“The Ministry condemns any attempt to impose financial burdens on learners or institutions for national events.”
The ministry said the DSI, Tranos Mahlokozera, must provide a full explanation for his actions, which contravene established protocols.
It has instructed all school heads, teachers, and stakeholders to disregard the directive, and no payments should be solicited or collected for this purpose.
The public has also been urged to report any individuals or institutions that pressure them to contribute for the Uhuru celebrations.
The ministry further reaffirmed its dedication to equitable, inclusive, and non-exploitative practices in education and apologized unreservedly for any anxiety caused.
“Independence Day remains a moment of national unity, and the public should be able to freely participate in celebrations without undue financial obligations,” added the statement.
The ministry assured the public that safeguards are being strengthened to prevent such incidents in the future.
