By Thabisani Dube
Harare – As Zimbabwe’s schools opened for the second term this week, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education intensified efforts to ensure smooth operations, financial compliance, and equitable access to education.
Minister Torerai Moyo promised to personally visit schools nationwide to monitor the reopening process and address any challenges on the ground. “We are committed to ensuring that schools open safely and that teaching and learning proceeds without interruption,” Minister Moyo said in a statement.
Parents across the country have expressed mixed feelings about the reopening. Felistas Dube, a mother of three in Harare Avenues, welcomed the Ministry’s clear communication on fee payments, saying, “The guidelines on multi-currency payments have helped me budget better. I appreciate that schools cannot demand only US dollars anymore.”
However, some parents remain concerned about affordability. “Paying fees in multiple currencies is helpful, but the overall cost is still high. Flexible payment plans are necessary for many families,” said Sibonile Ncube, a parent from Bulawayo.
Students have also shared their perspectives. Kudzai Mkosana, a Form One boarder at Marist Brothers in Dete in Matabeleland North, said, “I am happy to be back at school, but some of us worry about how our parents will manage fees this term. The multi-currency payment option is a relief, but we hope schools remain flexible.”
Meanwhile, a Grade 5 Loyce Kunyanika a student from Mkono Primary School in Mhondoro, Mashonaland West was excited at returning to class after the break. Her mother noted, “We are grateful that uniform and stationery purchases are no longer restricted to the school, which helps us find affordable options.”
The Ministry’s directive prohibits schools from demanding exclusive payments in US dollars, allowing fees to be paid in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) or other currencies in the official basket. Schools must use the official interbank exchange rate for fee conversions, and violations will be reported to monetary authorities.
Schools are finalising registrations for the June O-Level and A-Level exams, with the mop-up registration deadline set for May 16. The Ministry reminded parents that pupils cannot be excluded from exams due to unpaid fees and encouraged schools to collaborate on flexible payment plans.
Parents are also free to buy uniforms and stationery from any supplier, provided items meet school specifications. Schools are discouraged from forcing exclusive purchases, allowing families to seek more affordable options.
With Minister Moyo’s active school visits underway and new monitoring resources deployed, the Ministry aims to uphold quality education and compliance throughout the term. Parents, teachers, and communities are encouraged to work together to ensure that the reopening is a success, despite ongoing economic and infrastructural challenges.
