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A former convict and teacher from Njube suburb in Bulawayo has been arraigned before a court for allegedly sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl in his home while recording the act.
As reported by <a href="https://bmetro.co.zw/teacher-captures-nudes-video-while-raping-student/">B-Metro</a>, the 65-year-old accused is the landlord of the victim’s family. To protect the identity of the complainant, the man’s name has not been disclosed.
He appeared in court on Wednesday before Western Commonage regional magistrate Sibongile Msipa-Marondedze, facing a charge of rape.
The accused was not asked to enter a plea and only confirmed the allegations against him.
The accused who was a self-actor was remanded in custody to 16 October. The magistrate advised him to apply for bail at the Bulawayo High Court.
The court heard that on Sunday last week, at around 3 PM, the accused called the nine-year-old victim and other children for extra lessons before leaving for his bedroom.
He later summoned the victim to bring him exercise books for marking. Upon entering his bedroom, he instructed her to place the books on the table and look for others he had marked.
While she searched, he allegedly undressed and threatened her if she screamed. He then ordered her to lie on the bed and assaulted her while recording the act.
Afterwards, he took explicit photos and videos of both the victim and himself, storing them on his phone. The accused allegedly forced the victim to watch the X-rated video and raped her again.
Later that evening, the minor informed her parents about the incident, prompting them to report it to Njube Police Station. This led to the arrest of the 65-year-old man and the recovery of the explicit images and videos.
The accused has a prior conviction; in 2021, he was sentenced to 24 months in jail for fondling a minor’s breasts and private parts, with six months suspended, resulting in an 18-month prison term.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

A 65-year-old teacher from Bulawayo is accused of raping a 9-year-old girl during extra lessons in his home. He recorded the assault on video. The man, who was previously convicted for molesting a child, has been arrested and will appear in court. The victim's parents reported the incident to the police after the girl told them what happened. The accused has been remanded in custody while awaiting further legal proceedings. The case is ongoing, and the man faces serious charges for his actions.

Teacher Records Video While Raping Learner (9) During Extra Lessons

The government has announced changes to the dates for the August 2024 holiday school classes. The new schedule will be from August 9 to August 22, instead of the previously announced August 19 to August 30, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-changes-schools-closing-date-for-examination-classes/">Chronicle</a>.
This revised calendar means that when schools close for the Second Term on August 8, public examination-sitting classes – including Grade 7, Form 4, and Form 6 students – will continue with lessons until August 22.
The changes were confirmed by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Mike Mhike, in a statement sent to educational authorities across the country.
According to Mhike, the new holiday school calendar will enable the Ministry to conduct more effective supervision and oversight of schools during this critical examination preparation period. He said:
<blockquote>
Following the release of the Secretary’s Circular Number 6 of 2024 on the above subject matter and the engagements that followed thereafter, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education informs that the Vacation School for August holidays will run from 9 August to 22 August for all schools. The timeframe of 19th to 30 August as given earlier, is cancelled.
The rest of the Secretary’s Circular Number 6 of 2024 content remains the same. The decision taken to this effect will allow Grade 7, Form Four and Upper Six pupils to continue with learning while the rest of the grades and forms close schools on the 8th of August 2024.
</blockquote>
Mhike also said that the latest decision will reduce the travel costs that boarders would have faced under the previous vacation school calendar.
He added that the new dates will enable the inspectorate to monitor vacation schools within a standardised timeframe for all institutions.
Mhike said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education reserves the right to further revise this statement.
The fees for these vacation lessons were set at the following rates per subject (in US dollars): Grade 7 – $2, Form 4 – $3, and Form 6 – $5. Boarding students will be required to pay an extra $4 per day.
However, parents are allowed to pay in the currency of their choice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government changed the dates for August holiday classes for Grade 7, Form 4, and Form 6 learners. Instead of August 19-30, classes will now be from August 9-22. This change will help the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education supervise exam preparation. The fees for these classes are $2 for Grade 7, $3 for Form 4, and $5 for Form 6. Boarding students will also pay extra. Parents can pay in any currency they prefer. This decision may be revised in the future.

Grade 7, Form 4 And Form 6 Learners To Close On 22 August

Teachers have welcomed the move by the government to lift the ban on paid extra lessons ahead of the August holidays.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 17 July, the Permanent Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, Moses Mhike, said that vacation lessons will take place from 19 to 30 August.
Fees have been pegged at US$2 per learning area (subject) for Grade Seven learners, US$3 per O-Level subject and US$5 per A-Level subject for the whole duration.
However, boarding students will be charged an additional US$4 daily, over and above the established fees.
Mhike said teachers should receive a 50 per cent appreciation fee, with 20 per cent allocated to administration and 30 per cent designated for utilities and stationery.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/teachers-parents-welcome-govt-move-on-holiday-lessons/">The Herald</a> following the announcement, Sifiso Ndlovu, the chief executive of the Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association (ZIMTA), said:
<blockquote>
As long as our competency measurement is based on examinations, and even more so now that examinations account for 80 per cent of the assessment, the need for extra tuition will always be prevalent.
We welcome this development, as it is what most educators, who want to see their learners pass and excel, love to see.
We must reasonably focus on assisting learners to achieve their utmost best, rather than viewing it as a money-spinning venture.
It is simply an assistance to help learners gain as much competency as possible in preparation for an examination that determines their future pathways.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe National School Heads Union Secretary General Munyaradzi Majoni commended the government for the move but expressed reservations about the criteria used to determine the fees, questioning the methodology behind the pricing structure Said Majoni:
<blockquote>
Fundamentally, the idea of holiday lessons for candidates is an issue that we, as unions, have been pushing for, and the fact that the Government has accepted and given the green light to schools to conduct these holiday lessons, we take that as a positive thing.
</blockquote>
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president Obert Masaraure also welcome the move by the government. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
We welcome the authorization of vacation school. Pegging a uniform fee and formalising teacher incentives is on point.
We urge the government to release grants to schools to cater for the fees. Most parents won’t afford the fees because of the drought. US$10,660,550 will cater for all candidates.
</blockquote>
Several years ago, the government banned the practice of teachers providing extra paid lessons outside of regular school hours.
This followed concerns that teachers were neglecting their official duties during the normal school day and only teaching those students whose parents could afford the additional fees.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government in Zimbabwe has allowed teachers to give extra lessons for a fee during the August holidays. The fees are $2 for Grade Seven subjects, $3 for O-Level subjects, and $5 for A-Level subjects. Boarding students will pay an additional $4 daily. Teachers will get a 50% fee, with some going to administration and utilities. Some teacher unions support the move, saying it will help students do better in exams. The government used to ban paid extra lessons before because teachers were neglecting their normal duties.

Teachers Applaud Removal Of Ban On Paid Extra Lessons

Teacher unions have said no law prohibits their members from conducting holiday lessons. This comes after the Government issued a warning of disciplinary measures for schools who defied the directive to refrain from organising vacation school during this April holiday, citing the need for learners to rest.
Across the country, several schools, including one administered by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), are reportedly conducting holiday lessons specifically for examination classes.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200025663/govt-teachers-square-off-over-holiday-lessonsno-law-criminalises-the-act-teachers-argue">NewsDay</a>, ZRP Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga reportedly approved holiday lessons for the Zimbabwe Republic Police High School, which is located in Hatcliffe, Harare.
The school will be conducting holiday lessons starting from April 4 to 15, 2024 and also April 19 to 30, 2024.
The ZRP is charging US$100 for internal learners and US$159 for external learners.
In a circular dated March 25, 2024, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s permanent secretary banned schools from conducting lessons during the holiday because learning during the first term was uninterrupted.
Speaking to NewsDay, Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said that extra lessons are good for learners. Said Majongwe:
<blockquote>
The most important question we are asking is: Why does the government want to criminalise good effort? No teacher is spending time with learners to dampen their performance. Extra lessons are in good intent. Which law criminalises teaching?
Teachers are professionals and they are practising what they are trained for. Have we seen soldiers and cops being penalised for offering their services privately? Why does the government hate teachers so much?
Government should tell us the law under which it is banning holiday lessons. We are ready to challenge whoever harasses teachers for practising their profession.
Has government been charged for failing to provide basics to schools as enshrined in the Constitution?
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni said the ban has only fuelled the “black market” for extra lessons. Said Majoni:
<blockquote>
We know that parents are not comfortable having their children who are candidates this year at home for 39 days and, hence, it is those same parents who choose to send their children to those backyard and unregistered private schools to access the necessary education which was banned on the official market.
As far as we know, no public school is involved in the holiday lessons business and so they will find nothing if they visit these schools.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) secretary-general Goodwill Taderera:
<blockquote>
If any schools are conducting holiday lessons, it means they defied the government. But I don’t think there are public schools that defied the order.
Probably it’s the private schools or those unregistered schools that are in defiance. But our position is, if there is a circular from the ministry, then it should be adhered to.
</blockquote>
Primary and Secondary Education Ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro was quoted as saying that 0,001% of schools were in defiance of the government’s directive not to conduct holiday lessons.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

No Law Criminalises Holiday Lessons, Teachers Challenge Govt Ban

School authorities allowing extra lessons to be conducted at their institutions during this April holiday risk disciplinary action being taken against them.
This was said by Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) communications and advocacy director, Taungana Ndoro, on Friday, April 12.
Posting on X, Ndoro said the ban on vacation school during this holiday is still in place, adding that school authorities should allow learners to rest. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education emphasizes compliance with the directive regarding Vacation School during the April holiday.
Schools that violate this directive may face appropriate disciplinary measures. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and independent learning of pupils during this break.
</blockquote>
The Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, Chris Mhike, issued the directive banning vacation school classes towards the end of the 2024 First Term. He said:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education acknowledges the conduct of teaching and learning in all schools which went seamlessly during the first term of the year, fully embracing the 56 days set aside for that process.
The dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to educating and nurturing the young minds of our pupils have not gone unnoticed.
The creativity and passion brought about by all our teachers in the classrooms that made learning engaging, interactive and inspiring for our pupils is commended and the Ministry remains grateful.
The Ministry notes with appreciation the requests that have been received from some of its sectors to allow for the uptake of the Vacation School for examination classes of Grade 7, Ordinary and Advanced level during this April holiday.
Having consulted widely on the matter and taking cognisant of the fact that the school term had no disturbances at all to the teaching and learning programme, therefore, authority is NOT GRANTED that schools facilitate a Vacation School during the April school holidays for the Grade 7, Ordinary and Advanced level candidates, as well as for the non-examinations classes.
Pupils need this holiday break to rest and engage in independent learning where need be, including utilisation of the Zimbabwe Learning Passport amongst other alternative learning strategies.
We all look forward to the resumption of the second term set to begin on the 7th of May, 2024.
</blockquote>
However, a report by <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/schools-defy-govt-vacation-lessons-ban/">The Manica Post</a> on Friday indicated that several schools in Manicaland Province are conducting normal lessons in defiance of the government directive.
According to the report, vacation lessons are ongoing at schools such as Baring Primary School, Dangamvura Primary School, Murahwa Primary School and Rock of Ages.
<div class="in_article">
<div>
While some schools reportedly had Forms Four, Five and Six classes, others had the whole stream of learners in class for the usual day-to-day lessons.
Parents and guardians are being asked to pay US$1 per day per learner at primary school, and US$10 per subject for those in secondary schools.
Some of the private schools are charging as much as US$20 per subject for secondary school learners due to increased enrolment after some public schools heeded the Government directive.
An authority at a private school in Mutare who spoke to The Manica Post on condition of anonymity said they ignored the Government directive to prepare their learners for the forthcoming Cambridge examinations. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>
</div>
</div>

School Heads, Teachers Warned Over Holiday Lessons

Several schools in Manicaland Province have reportedly defied a Government directive not to have vacation school this holiday.
<a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/schools-defy-govt-vacation-lessons-ban/">The Manica Post</a> has established that several schools in the province are conducting normal lessons, despite the widely circulated directive by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to suspend lessons this April holiday.
According to the report, vacation lessons are ongoing at schools such as Baring Primary School, Dangamvura Primary School, Murahwa Primary School and Rock of Ages.
While some schools reportedly had Forms Four, Five and Six classes, others had the whole stream of learners in class for the usual day-to-day lessons.
Parents and guardians are being asked to pay US$1 per day per learner at primary school, and US$10 per subject for those in secondary schools.
Some of the private schools are charging as much as US$20 per subject for secondary school learners due to increased enrolment after some public schools heeded the Government directive.
An authority at a private school in Mutare who spoke to The Manica Post on condition of anonymity said they ignored the Government directive to prepare their learners for the forthcoming Cambridge examinations. Said the official:
<blockquote>
We find ourselves in a very difficult situation because we have Cambridge exams coming up on April 29, and for these kids not to attend classes, means they would have lost revision time. We have no option, but to offer these holiday lessons.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Acting Manicaland Provincial Education Director (PED), Richard Gabaza said the Government directive applies to all schools, private or public. He said:
<blockquote>
Generally, yes, they (schools) took heed. Some even tried to apply to have vacation lessons, but the applications were turned down in line with the Government directive.
The directive applied to all schools, private or public. All schools operate under the Education Act, and everyone must abide by the statutes outlined in that Act.
</blockquote>
He said they will investigate the reports, and schools caught violating the directive will be penalised.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Schools Defy Government Vacation Lessons Ban

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has written to some local authorities requesting free operating space for a new scheme that will see its members providing free holiday lessons this April.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/rural-teachers-offer-free-holiday-lessons-write-to-councils-requesting-vacant-space/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure expressed optimism despite the lack of responses to their requests. He believes that the councils, who were copied on the letters, will recognize the nobility of the proposed idea. Said Masaraure:
<blockquote>
There is no response received yet, but councils have an obligation to provide education as a service. The move by the government to ban holiday lessons in schools leaves councils as the only authority with the potential to serve the poor.
The letters are being distributed to all provincial capitals and local authorities. We have covered all provincial capitals so far.
</blockquote>
One of the letters addressed to a local authority by ARTUZ reads:
<blockquote>
ARTUZ kindly requests the free usage of any of your communal facilities such as municipal community halls, in conducting holiday lessons for students in your locality.
</blockquote>
He said rural district councils will also be receiving the letters.
This comes as the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education decided not to grant authority for Vacation School during the April holiday for Grade 7, ‘O’, and ‘A’ level candidates, as well as other non-exam classes.
In a statement released on Monday, March 25, the Ministry emphasized that pupils deserve a well-earned break for rest and independent learning.
The statement, which was signed by the Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, Chris Mhike, was addressed to Chief Directors, Provincial Education Directors Directors, District Schools Inspectors, Heads of all Primary and Secondary Schools, National Association of Primary School Heads, National Association of Secondary School Heads, Teacher Organisations, Responsible Authorities, Association of Church Education Secretaries, Association of Trust Schools, and Independent Colleges Association.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rural Teachers Resolve To Offer Free Holiday Lessons

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to teachers, emphasizing that demanding cash from parents for extra lessons and abusing learners is illegal.
During the 16th edition of the Commissioner General of Police’s Schools Merit Awards in Harare, ZRP Deputy Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba asserted that they will not tolerate such behaviour in schools. He said:
<blockquote>
Our success stories are being blemished by the actions of some bad elements among us.
I am informed that some staff members are putting pressure on parents from whom they are demanding extra and unnecessary charges for extra lessons.
From the onset, let me remind you all that the responsible ministry outrightly gave a position that it is illegal.
Some of you choose to take a lackadaisical approach to work or even fail to work during normal school time, only to wait for the ‘Remedial time’. That should stop forthwith.
Those who feel uncomfortable working in the classroom environment are free to come out in the open and the organisation will redeploy them elsewhere.
On another regrettable note, I was briefed on a recent shameful criminal incident which paints a very dark image of our schools.
Abuse of any nature on school children by teachers is a serious affront to the trust reposed in you as teachers.
I do not want to picture that there are some among you in the same ensnare. School staff, you are in loco parentis, entrusted with children by parents.
How dare you ponder wickedness towards children left in your custody? In any case, those children are your very own children whom you are expected to be protecting and nurturing.
Be warned. As the law enforcement agency, we will never stand aside and allow that to happen in schools, more so, our police schools. The safe and only place for violators of children’s rights is behind bars.
</blockquote>
Deputy Commissioner-General Mutamba announced plans to expand the network of ZRP schools nationwide, specifically to provide quality education for police officers’ children.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Warn Teachers Against Demanding Cash For Extra Lessons

Twenty-three (23) schools countrywide are accused of turning away learners over unpaid tuition, demanding fees in United States dollars and conducting extra lessons, among other charges.
The 23 schools are Parirewa Primary and Secondary Schools, Kudzanai Primary, Kuredza Primary, Kuwadzana 6 Primary, Allan Wilson High School, Chinhoyi 2 High, Mhanyame Primary, Chirorodziva, Tafara Primary, Helwyn Primary, Biri Primary, Kasimure Primary, Maumbe Primary, Magunje High, Norton Intellect Primary, Strathdon Secondary, Negomo Secondary, Mhuriimwe Secondary, Tendai Primary, Glenview 2 High, Chiri Government and Hatcliffe High schools.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021881/23-schools-in-hot-soup">NewsDay</a> reported that the charges included demanding cash for extra lessons, conducting illegal extra lessons, turning away pupils over non-payment of levies, demanding exclusively US dollar fee payment and hiking fees without approval from the Government.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo visited several schools in Harare on a fact-finding mission on Tuesday.
He visited Oriel Boys High School, Eastridge Primary School and Makomo Primary School in Harare.
Speaking during the tour, Moyo reiterated a government directive that no learner should be turned away over non-payment of school fees.
He also warned schools against withholding examination results for learners’ failure to pay school fees. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
The contract for examinations is between the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) and learners (candidates), on school fees, the contract is between parents or guardians and the school.
No results should be withheld and no learner should be turned away from school regarding fee payment.
Schools must find other ways to get the tuition fee from parents and guardians. This is not to say parents must not pay school fees.
</blockquote>
Moyo said schools selling uniforms at their premises should not force parents to buy the uniforms if they feel they are expensive. He said:
<blockquote>
I have received reports of some schools forcing parents to buy uniforms from them.
Parents and guardians are free to purchase uniforms where they find them cheaper.
If your school is innovative (by producing) uniforms, the price should be reasonable and not by force.
</blockquote>
In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said some schools were defying the Government directive to charge only approved school fees and levies.
The Ministry also said some learning institutions were charging school fees and levies exclusively in foreign currency, forcing parents to purchase school uniforms and stationery exclusively at their schools and withholding results for Grade 7, ‘O’ and ‘A’ level candidates.
It reminded schools that they are bound by the procedures to be followed when making school fee adjustments according to Secretary’s Circular No. 1 of 2023.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

23 Schools In Trouble For Conducting Illegal Extra Lessons

A teenager took her father to the Harare Magistrates Court to request financial support for her education. Heather Mabvira informed Magistrate Ayanda Dlamini that her father, Justin Mabvira, was refusing to contribute to her tuition fees. She requested a monthly sum of US$120 to cover additional lessons, stationary, and transportation expenses.
Heather stated that her father worked as a panel beater and she believed he should provide for her educational needs while she continues attending school. She said:
<blockquote>
He is a panel beater and I am applying that he provides for my extra educational needs because I am still going to school.
</blockquote>
Justin Mabvira defended himself by informing the court that he could only afford to pay US$30. He explained that he already had other children to support and considered Heather’s demand of US$120 to be excessive. Additionally, he mentioned that attending to various legal matters concerning Heather, her mother, and her siblings had caused him to miss work, putting his job at risk. He argued:
<blockquote>
I have other children whom I am taking care of and her US$120 claim is outrageous.
I almost lost a job recently for being absent at work attending to several cases from her, her mother and siblings.
</blockquote>
In response, Magistrate Dlamini ordered Justin Mabvira to pay US$30 towards his daughter’s educational expenses.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Teenager Takes Father To Court Over School Fees

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has engaged the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to help fight the practice of charging fees for extra lessons by teachers.
In an interview with the <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/corruption-charges-for-teachers-demanding-extra-lessons-fee/">Sunday News</a>, the Ministry’s Director of Communication and Advocacy Taungana Ndoro said teachers who charge fees for extra lessons will be arrested for corruption. He said:
<blockquote>
With regard to extra lessons, the Ministry’s position remains clear. Paid extra lessons, particularly during the school term remain illegal and parents and guardians are advised not to continue feeding the beast by continuously paying for these extra lessons as they exacerbate the situation that we are currently facing.
This practise of paying for extra lessons is a chargeable offence and an act of misconduct.
It is criminal abuse of office and corruption basically which is why we are working together with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission to curb this scourge.
</blockquote>
Ndoro said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is working with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that teachers charging for extra lessons are penalised. He said:
<blockquote>
We are also working with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other authorities to try and combat this.
Parents and teachers should both be held liable under the law for aiding and abetting this form of corruption.
The Ministry has put in place platforms on social media where people can report such practise so that action is immediately taken in conjunction with the relevant authorities.
Parents can send reports to our WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter or even to our websites. You can even call our toll-free line, directly to our offices so that we can together tackle this scourge and ensure that all our learners continue to receive quality education and no one, and no place is left behind.
</blockquote>
He said parents who pay teachers for extra lessons are also at risk of facing corruption charges. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
The idea of feeding the beast means that parents are complicit in aiding teachers that are demanding illicit payments for extra lessons and in most cases, these teachers end up not doing the job for which they are already paid for, for which they are already on a government salary, for which they are already on a responsible authority’s salary.
Therefore, these paid-for extra lessons remain illegal and banned.
</blockquote>
On 30 March, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education announced a ban on holiday lessons, saying learners needed time to rest.
The Ministry also argued that the 2023 school calendar was never interrupted by COVID-19 hence there was no need for schools and teachers to conduct extra lessons during this April holiday.
However, teachers across the country have defied the ban saying making learners pay for extra lessons is a way of supplementing their salaries.
Some high school boarding teachers are reportedly renting buildings in the central business district as well as churches to conduct extra lessons and charging US$10 per subject.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Extra Lessons: Teachers, Parents Face Corruption Charges - Govt

The Government has continued its crackdown on holiday extra lessons with several teachers arrested countrywide.
In late March the Government announced a ban on holiday lessons, saying learners needed time to rest.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education also argued that the 2023 school calendar was never interrupted by COVID-19 hence there was no need for schools and teachers to conduct extra lessons during this April holiday.
However, teachers are reportedly conducting private lessons in odd places such as bedrooms and church premises to evade authorities.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010418/teachers-defy-ban-on-extra-lessons">NewsDay</a> reported that a Chivhu district schools inspector, Emmanuel Kwenda, busted teachers who were conducting extra lessons at an Apostolic Faith Church premises last Friday.
In Marondera, four teachers were recently arrested by the police for conducting holiday lessons.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Taungana Ndoro said extra lessons remained banned. He said:
<blockquote>
Those (teachers) that continue doing that will be sanctioned.
</blockquote>
However, Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said the Government should pay teachers decent salaries.
Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni said:
<blockquote>
They (government) suppressed the formalised extra-lesson system and they promoted the clandestine system which is in full swing and thriving.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Association secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said:
<blockquote>
The current crop of learners really needs extra lessons. Apart from being affected by COVID-19, the government is not paying teachers enough for them to do their best in school.
</blockquote>
While the government has declared that paid extra lessons were illegal, teachers are among the lowest-paid civil servants and extra lessons will most likely not go away any time soon as the impoverished educators try to make ends meet.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Teachers Arrested Over Extra Lessons

Schools and teachers across the country have defied a recent government ban on holiday lessons for learners.
On 30 March, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education announced a ban on holiday lessons, saying learners needed time to rest.
The Ministry also argued that the 2023 school calendar was never interrupted by COVID-19 hence there was no need for schools and teachers to conduct extra lessons during this April holiday.
One teacher who takes children for extra lessons in her Emganwini home in Bulawayo told <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/teachers-defy-government-ban-on-holiday-extra-lessons/">ZimLive</a> that she charged her primary school learners US$5 per week. The teacher said:
<blockquote>
Most of the students here are from my class at the school that I teach.
I charge a minimum fee for my services and this complements my monthly income.
The extra lessons also help students, especially those who are lagging behind in class to catch up.
</blockquote>
Some high school boarding teachers are reportedly renting buildings in the central business district to conduct extra lessons and charging US$10 per subject.
However, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) is against the milking of parents by teachers through extra lessons.
ARTUZ spokesperson Thembakuye Moyo told ZimLive that despite the financial challenges faced by teachers, the union does not recommend extra lessons as a means of making money. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
As ARTUZ, we are a pro-poor union, a union that is biased towards the masses.
We have always been clear that teachers are paid by the government. No parent or guardian should pay a teacher for extra lessons.
Some of the reasons why teachers could be conducting extra lessons could be that they are hungry and at the same time, learners are performing badly.
Some teachers could genuinely be doing this as a means of trying to improve their students’ results.
</blockquote>
While the government has declared that paid extra lessons were illegal, teachers are among the lowest-paid civil servants and extra lessons will most likely not go away any time soon as the impoverished educators try to make ends meet.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Teachers Defy Govt As Paid Holiday Extra Lessons Continue Unabated

The Government has urged parents to report to authorities schools that are conducting extra lessons during the school holiday.
Some schools are reportedly conducting extra lessons despite the Ministry of Primary Secondary Education stating that learners should be allowed to rest during the April holiday.
The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-cracks-the-whip-on-extra-lessons/">Chronicle</a> reported Primary and Secondary Education Deputy Minister Edgar Moyo as saying parents should work with the government to ensure that schools stop conducting extra lessons. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
The challenge is that some teachers are shortchanging learners during the school term so that parents can bring the children for extra lessons during the holidays.
Teachers should be able to cover the syllabus during the school term as now the school calendar has gone back to normal.
If parents shun these illegal extra lessons and demand that their children receive quality education during the term then there will be no need for extra lessons.
We need the buy-in from parents to ensure that children have access to quality education at our schools.
</blockquote>
About 10 days ago, the Ministry of Primary and secondary education, permanent secretary Tumisang Thabela issued a statement saying there will be no extra lessons over the school holidays as lessons were not interrupted during the term. She said:
<blockquote>
Please note that teaching and learning was not disrupted this term. We are still early in the year therefore, the vacation school for this April holiday is not authorized.
The COVID-19 pandemic is still with us and there has been no relaxation of COVID-19 protocols.
Ministry remains on high alert on the pandemic and pupil safeguarding considerations should be upheld.
Pupils should be allowed a full rest this holiday. In the interim, pupils can be assigned holiday homework and asked to compile their Continuous Assessment Learning Activities, fully utilizing the available Alternative Learning Methods at their disposal, including the Learning Passport and the effective use of Catch-Up Materials: all available on our website, www. mopse.co.zw
This year, June examinations will be resuscitated and schools are encouraged to register only those candidates requiring a re-sit and not formal ones as they will still be working on their components of CALA.
On the same note, PEDs are reminded that Heads of Schools should remain on duty over the holidays to preside over administrative tasks including the registration of candidates for the 2023 examinations as guided by ZIMSEC.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Tells Parents To Shun Extra Lessons

The ministry of primary and secondary education has announced that there will be no extra lessons over the school holidays.
In a statement ministry of primary and secondary education, permanent secretary Mrs <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tumisang_Thabela">Tumisang Thabela</a> said the ministry came to the decision, as lessons were not interrupted during the term. The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/no-holiday-lessons-ministry/">Chronicle</a> cites Mrs Thabela as saying:
<blockquote>
This decision is informed by the fact that lessons have not been interrupted this term hence the need to give pupils time to rest. 
</blockquote>
Some schools in Zimbabwe have been offering extra lessons during school holidays to help students catch up or get ahead.
For years, there have been discussions and policies in Zimbabwe regarding the regulation of extra lessons. 
In 2019, the Zimbabwean government announced that they would be banning all forms of extra lessons and holiday schools, to promote equal opportunities and reduce the burden on parents to pay for additional education. 
Some schools and or teachers have, however, continued with extra lessons.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

No Extra Lessons Over School Holidays - Government

The Ministry of Secondary and Primary Education has said it will send a message that will be a deterrent to teachers conducting privately-paid extra lessons.
The Ministry said some teachers are not doing their work during normal learning hours to corruptly earn more income from desperate parents through extra lessons.
Mr <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Taungana_Ndoro">Taungana Ndoro</a>, the ministry’s spokesperson said the practice appeared to be particularly rife in Harare Metropolitan province where teachers were putting personal interests ahead of those of learners.
Under Government policy, teachers in the public system are forbidden to charge for extra lessons, although they may provide extra tuition for an entire class without extra pay.
Speaking during the second Integrity Icon Summit in Harare last Friday, Mr Ndoro said the government will send a message that will be a deterrent to teachers conducting extra lessons. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-acts-on-extra-lessons/">The Herald</a> cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
The schools where you find issues of extra lessons are those schools in communities that are resourced but most of our schools are in the rural areas. In rural areas, it is nearly impossible to conduct paid-for extra lessons in places like Rushinga, Muzarabani, Gokwe, Nkayi, Bulilima and others. But go to the urban and metropolitan areas, Glen View, Highfield, Mabvuku, Mpopoma, Pumula, that’s where you start having this problem and we can count those number of schools. They are just a fraction so the integrity is still intact.
We want to send a clear message that makes it a deterrent for anyone to be unethical. There are a lot of teachers, some of whom have 15 to 20 years of experience right now, who would never take money for extra lessons before but are now also doing it because quite a number of their colleagues are doing it. They have also joined the bandwagon.
There are heads who were morally upright but because another head within their district is taking money for enrolment, they are also doing it. This is where we say we need deterrent prosecutions.
</blockquote>
Reports suggest that some teachers are demanding from US$5 to US$10 from each pupil for extra lessons and those who fail to pay are neglected during regular lessons.
Zimbabwean teachers are among the lowest-paid in the region. They argue that they conduct extra lessons to complement the “insufficient” salaries they get from the government.
They have been embarking on periodic protests to force the government to restore their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) last year said <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/29/charging-fees-for-extra-lessons-constitutes-corruption-zacc/">it is illegal for teachers to ask parents to pay fees for extra lessons</a> adding that the practice constitutes corruption.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt's Deterrent Message On Extra Lessons

The government has vowed to take action against teachers who mistreat learners whose parents would have failed to pay for extra lessons.
This comes after an unidentified parent in Norton, Mashonaland West Province, claimed that an ECD class taught by one Mrs. Chirombo was divided into groups of those who paid for extra lessons and those who didn’t.
It is alleged that Mrs. Chirombo only attends to paid-up pupils. The affected parent said:
<blockquote>
Those audios are for my child who is doing ECD at Norton 1 School. I don’t know what it means.
At first, I thought that she was joking, but now the child has reported this for the third time.
My heart is in pain. I don’t know what I should do but my heart is bleeding. I don’t know how best you can help me.
My child is in ECD B Diamond, taught by Madam Chirombo.
</blockquote>
Primary and Secondary Education ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006993/govt-zeroes-in-on-rogue-teachers">NewsDay</a> that relevant authorities will investigate the matter. Ndoro said:
<blockquote>
Give us the names of schools, teachers and classes and we will deal with that immediately. If you can do that by Monday morning, our officials will be there.
We are now waiting for whistle-blowers to give us names of teachers who are engaging in those underhand and corrupt dealings.
We are waiting for people to give us information because sometimes we don’t have enough information as to who exactly is doing what.
We are going to bring sanity into the education sector by uprooting those rotten tomatoes that have been denying our learners their constitutional right to quality education.
The long arm of the law is going to catch up with those unscrupulous teachers and they will be dealt with in terms of the Code of Conduct and Prevention of Corruption Act.
</blockquote>
He said parents and guardians should forward the names of teachers and schools involved in such malpractices.
Educators Union of Zimbabwe president Tafadzwa Munodawafa said the government is to blame for the malpractice as teachers are underpaid. He said:
<blockquote>
Our union notes with concern the reported cases but we blame the government for negligence and being short-sighted.
We bemoan the decay of educational standards exhibited through classes between parents and teachers.
However, we attribute the blame to the government. By failing to pay teachers a living wage, the monster called extra lessons was created.
</blockquote>

Govt Warns Teachers Against Extra Lessons

ZANU PF has expressed concern over the deaths of pupils in schools, extra lessons, and the charging of exorbitant fees including some exclusively in foreign currency.
This is contained in the party’s Central Committee Report adopted at the 7th National People’s Congress which ended in Harare on Saturday.
ZANU PF’s Department of Education said action should be taken to address the mentioned issues. Reads in part the report seen by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/stern-warning-for-errant-schools/">The Herald</a>:
<blockquote>
Congress will recall that several cases of students deaths at boarding schools have been reported. It is the view of the Department that when students are at school, the headmaster and teachers are in loco parentis, and should take good care of students.
Counselling services should be widely and easily accessible at all schools. We urge Congress to take a definitive stance on this matter.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF also condemned the charging of exorbitant school fees saying those doing so deliberately destabilising the local currency. 
The party said parents had complained that the fees being demanded by some schools are too exorbitant.
The Department recommended the de-registration of non-compliant schools. 
ZANU PF also suggested that there were deliberate attempts by some teachers to sabotage the formal teaching framework by focusing on extra lessons. Read the report:
<blockquote>
Many teachers are not attending to students during normal working hours choosing instead to do it in extra lessons where a fee is charged. If this situation is left unchecked, we risk creating a black market for education.
Congress should therefore come up with a clear policy regarding the issue of extra lessons.
</blockquote>
The Central Committee Report said the Education Department also received reports of schools offering boarding facilities that have adopted the habit of demanding groceries over and above school fees. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZANU PF Says Extra Lessons Should Stop Or "Risk Creating A Black Market For Education"

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has given the green light to schools to conduct holiday lessons for examination classes but with some conditions.
In a circular sent to various “education stakeholders”, the ministry’s permanent secretary Tumisang Thabela said:
<blockquote>
Please note that vacation schools for candidates during this August school holiday should be held in compliance with the standard operating procedures for COVID-19.
This strategy should provide an opportunity for pupils to catch up with the syllabus demands in preparation for their summative examinations at the end of the year in view of the lost learning time experienced during long school closures.
Be reminded that the vacation school should be held for a maximum of 10 working days, being mindful of the fact that children have to rest.
… A zero budget principle should be implemented for the holiday sessions, budgeting for the activities only without any profit or less at the end of the session.
All forms of currency are acceptable as a form of payment at the prevailing interbank rate. Boarding fees to be calculated on a pro-rata basis.
</blockquote>
Schools were advised schools to apply for permission to run the vacation schools from their provincial education directors.
Thabela also urged remote schools to organise syllabus enrichment camps.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/government-green-lights-holiday-lessons-for-exam-classes/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Govt Okays Holiday Lessons For Exam Classes

The Government has reiterated that extra lessons during the holidays remain illegal even for classes that will sit for public examinations later in the year.
Director of communication and advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Taungana Ndoro said the banning of holiday lessons this term is aimed at protecting learners and teachers from the novel coronavirus. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
We have noted a trend that these schools are trying to circumvent the system by coming up with fancy names for these extra lessons.
Some are terming them vacations, others are saying they are retreats, but what won’t change is that these remain as extra lessons and extra lessons remain illegal for this term.
Schools must stop misleading parents and pupils that they applied and got clearance from the Ministry.
That is not true and any school that conducts these extra lessons must be prepared to face the consequences. Even if they apply they will never get the clearance this term.
The danger with these holiday lessons is that there won’t be proper monitoring taking place at these schools to ensure adherence to the COVID-19 prevention protocol.
Hence they might expose both the learners and the teachers to this pandemic.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/holiday-lessons-remain-banned">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

No Holiday Lessons, Vacations, Retreats In Schools - Govt

Teachers’ unions say the move by the Government to ban holiday extra lessons will negatively affect the overall Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) pass rate.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Taungana Ndoro on Tuesday told NewsDay that the government had banned holiday extra lessons to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
However, Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou said extra lessons are not compulsory but are for the benefit of learners. Said Zhou:
<blockquote>
Over the years, students have been performing very well in their exams owing to holiday lessons.
The blanket ban is unfortunate because extra lessons are not mandatory.
The ban is likely to have negative impacts on the overall ZIMSEC pass rate.
Teachers take pride in students passing and they offer holiday lessons for free.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said despite the ban, teachers will continue offering extra lessons to willing pupils. He said:
<blockquote>
Parents willingly send their children for extra lessons where they find teachers of repute to help them in their areas of need.
While the government has banned extra lessons, teachers will still clandestinely hold the extra lessons because they are being underpaid.
The issue of extra lessons only reflects the extent to which the teaching profession is under siege.
</blockquote>
Previously, schools would conduct holiday lessons usually for two weeks, allowing learners who would have fallen behind to catch up and also to cover areas of the syllabus that may have been left out during the term.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/extra-lesson-teachers-under-siege/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Holiday Lessons Ban May Affect ZIMSEC Pass Rate - Teachers

The Government has banned holiday extra lessons to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Previously, schools would conduct holiday lessons usually for two weeks, allowing learners who would have fallen behind to catch up and also to cover areas of the syllabus that may have been left out during the term.
However, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has sent officials to schools to ensure that extra lessons are not being conducted during the holiday. The Ministry’s spokesperson, Taungana Ndoro, said:
<blockquote>
We can’t allow the holiday lesson where there will be no proper monitoring of pupils in school which could fuel the COVID-19 cases.
Government has put in place adequate measures to ensure that pupils who are behind on their syllabi due to whatever reasons catch up.
They have been given lots of homework that they will be working on during the holiday such that when schools open for the second term, they will be ready to go.
</blockquote>
Speaking to NewsDay, Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads (ZINUSH) secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni, said:
<blockquote>
We have received reports from our members that some officials are already visiting schools to check if there were plans to hold extra lessons during the holidays.
However, in light of the prolonged impasse between the government, school heads and teachers, which saw pupils failing to attend lessons for over two weeks, it was prudent for government to allow pupils to attend extra holiday lessons if they deem it necessary.
Pupils need a lot of time to catch up after they lost it to the strike but unfortunately, government has banned holiday lessons, which disadvantages the learners.
</blockquote>
The first term only commenced in February, almost a month after the original date due to rising COVID-19 cases. Thereafter, teachers embarked on a strike which further prejudiced learners of precious learning time.
The 2022 first term ended on Thursday, 07 April, and the second term is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, 3 May.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/extra-lesson-teachers-under-siege/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Govt Bans Holiday Lessons

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has reiterated that it is illegal for schools and teachers to demand incentives from parents and guardians in order to teach their children.
This follows reports suggesting that teachers in many schools across the country are demanding additional fees per child a month to offer extra lessons.
Director of communication and advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Taungana Ndoro on Thursday said parents should not pay the incentives demanded by teachers. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
Incentives were outlawed a long time ago. No school should charge parents additional funds over and above what has been authorised by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education as agreed upon by the Parental Assembly.
Collection of such fees is illegal and teaching should be optimum in schools for all learners to derive benefit from the time they are in school with their teachers, supplemented by homework that is given them.
Teachers are already on a salary and therefore, parents should not give them incentives whenever they are asked to. Parents don’t take care of teachers and thus they must not pay them.
Parents should work together with us because as much as we are working on stopping this, some are going behind our backs and giving incentives still.
</blockquote>
Some teachers are reportedly asking parents and guardians to pay a fee of US$10 for their children in Grade 7 to be able to afford data and conduct lessons even during the weekend.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/extra-lessons-incentives-remain-illegal/">Chronicle</a></h4>

'Extra Lessons, Incentives Remain Illegal'

Some teachers who are reporting for duty in Manicaland’s public schools are reportedly charging US$1 per day for afternoon extra lessons that are being conducted in the classrooms.
Primary school teachers allegedly ask pupils to bring a dollar every day for afternoon in-class extra lessons when serious learning takes place.
In secondary schools, the teachers are reportedly providing extra lessons at home at an average weekly fee of US$2.50 per student in each subject.
The majority of teachers boycotted classes when schools opened for the 2022 second term on 7 February, demanding the restoration of their pre-October 2018 lessons when they were paid US$540 per month.
Speaking to The Manica Post, Acting Manicaland Provincial Education Director, Richard Gabaza said teachers’ attendance has improved across the province.
On the issue of extra lessons being conducted at schools, Gabaza said he was yet to receive formal reports. He said:
<blockquote>
Generally, teacher attendance has greatly improved since the start of the week. We will continue monitoring the situation on the ground as we do not want the students to be disadvantaged.
We have not yet received reports of extra lessons being conducted by the teachers.
It is a cause for concern if indeed it is happening. We will get on the ground and investigate that.
It is unacceptable and once the culprits are caught, they will certainly face the music.
We strongly discourage overburdening our parents and guardians by making them pay extra money on top of what is charged by the school.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/teachers-embark-on-in-class-extra-lessons/">The Manica Post</a></h4>

Teachers Resort To In-class Extra Lessons

Most of Zimbabwe’s primary and secondary school teachers are cashing in on the indefinite closure of schools by offering online tutorials for learners desperate to prepare for the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) examinations.
Formal face-to-face classes were supposed to resume on 28 June before the government postponed the dates indefinitely.
This has proved a boon to underpaid teachers who have set up private online classes targeting pupils from both their schools and elsewhere.
Teachers are reportedly charging an average of US$15 per month for primary school students, US$10 per subject for Ordinary Level students and US$15 per subject for Advanced Level learners.
A Harare-based teacher who spoke to NewZimbabwe.com said the coronavirus is proving to be a blessing in disguise. He said:
<blockquote>While COVID-19 has affected our lives, it has brought with it some good fortune. Online classes are raking in good money for me. I teach Advanced Level Chemistry and my online class has 27 students.
Pupils refer their colleagues to me because they know I am good at what I do and the fact that I am a ZIMSEC certified Chemistry examinations marker works in my favour.</blockquote>
Another primary school teacher told the publication that parents are desperate for their children to acquire the best education and were willing to pay in US dollars. She said:
<blockquote>I charge US$10 per child per month for my online Grade Seven class of 32 students. I will continue with these lessons even when the government gives the nod for schools to reopen because I am getting way more than my salary from these lessons.</blockquote>
A senior teacher in Zimbabwe is getting a salary of $22 000 which fetches around US$169 on the black market.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) recently said an average family of six in Zimbabwe requires $40 680 per month.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/teachers-cash-in-on-private-online-lessons-as-covid-keeps-schools-closed/">NewZimbabwe</a></h4>

Teachers Cash In On Online Extra Lessons

The National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH), has appealed to the government to allow schools to conduct holiday lessons.
This comes after the government banned holiday lessons this current school holiday as a measure to halt the spread of the coronavirus.
Schools have been encouraged to offer blended education programming through open distance and e-learning (ODeL) strategies.
But NASH president Aurthur Maphosa told Manica Post that the majority of pupils have no access to internet services, radio and television stations, thus making it impossible for them to access online teaching materials. Said Maphosa:
<blockquote>We appeal to the ministry to reconsider its position on the cancellation of holiday lessons.
Schools look at holiday lessons as an important component of the catch-up programme.
The alternative methods encouraged by the ministry (e-learning) are suitable in environments with internet services, radio and television stations, yet a huge number of our institutions are not capacitated with these.
These Grade Sevens, Form Fours and Upper Sixes did not learn much in 2020, they really need so many face-to-face tutorials with their teachers.</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Rural Teachers’ Union (ZRTU) president, Martin Chaburumunda, also said the March 2020 lockdown reduced instructional and learning time, thereby affecting students’ performance.
Ashirai Mawere, the School Development Committee (SDC) chairman for Mt Selinda High School, said pupils have a lot of work to be covered, hence the need for more learning time.
Teachers have been accused of neglecting their main duties to capitalise on holiday lessons and also victimising students whose guardians could not pay for the extra lessons.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/teachers-defy-holiday-lessons-ban/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Manica Post</a></h4>

NASH Urges Govt To Lift Ban On Holiday Lessons

Teachers and parents have continued to defy a ban on holidays lessons by the government as classrooms have mushroomed in beer halls, churches, houses and private colleges.
The government banned holiday lessons as a measure to halt the spread of the coronavirus but parents and guardians argue that the lessons will improve their children’s understanding of key concepts.
Some parents in Mutare, Rusape, Chipinge, Buhera and Nyanga are even offering space in their homes for the tutors.
Meanwhile, Manicaland Provincial Education Director, Edward Shumba said the practice is illegal. Said Shumba:
<blockquote>It is not okay for people to meet in their houses to conduct lessons. It is unfortunate we have no authority over what happens in people’s houses.
However, if holiday lessons are being conducted in schools and private colleges registered under the ministry, these cases should be reported to the ministry for action to be taken.
If people are meeting at homes or privately owned properties for the purpose of delivering lessons, they can be reported to the police.</blockquote>
Shumba said all school heads and teachers in Manicaland are aware that conducting holiday lessons is illegal and those defying lockdown regulations can be reported to the police. He said:
<blockquote>They are aware of it and we have effectively enforced the ban at all schools. Teachers conducting lessons at home are breaking the lockdown regulations and can be reported to the police.
They are doing it at their own peril and if they get arrested, they will be charged for bringing the name of the ministry into disrepute.</blockquote>
Zimbabwean teachers are some of the most underpaid government employees as they earn far much less than soldiers, police officers and prison guards.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/teachers-defy-holiday-lessons-ban/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Manica Post</a></h4>

Teachers Defy Holiday Lessons Ban

Various teachers’ unions have implored their members to stop conducting extra lessons, saying it is the government’s responsibility to pay teachers and not parents and guardians who cannot afford the fees being charged.
Reports indicate that some teachers have established makeshift schools at their homes, where they charge between US$5 and US$10 per subject for secondary school pupils and up to US$5 for primary school learners per month.
Teachers are currently reporting for duty for only two days per week, citing incapacitation after the government refused to meet their salary demands.
Zimbabwe Teachers Union (ZTU) secretary-general Goodwill Taderera told NewsDay that extra lessons robbed parents of their hard-earned cash as there was no control over what the teachers charged for services outside the normal system.
Zimbabwe National Teachers Union (ZNTU) chief executive Manuel Nyawo said teachers should not put the salary burden on parents who are not their employer but should direct their umbrage towards the government. He said:
<blockquote>Let us refuse to be paid by parents who are not the employer, and let us direct our shots to the employer.
By accepting or demanding incentive bribes, we are sanitising a wrong which also gives a wrong impression of the situation in schools.</blockquote>
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe concurred with his colleagues. He said:
<blockquote>We don’t encourage our members to conduct extra lessons and demand cash because the practice gives parents an unnecessary burden.
But we must not ignore the fact that if teachers were not conducting extra lessons last year, the pass rates we are talking about would have been reduced to single digits.
However, conducting extra lessons spoils the struggle for a real wage as those in the elite schools opt for the quick money and abandon the broader struggle.</blockquote>
The government banned teachers from conducting extra lessons several years ago and has warned that disciplinary action will be taken against teachers who charge for extra lessons.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/05/teachers-unions-ban-extra-lessons/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

Teachers Unions Ban Extra Lessons

It is not government policy for teachers to demand money for extra lessons from parents, a Cabinet minister has said.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa told Parliament last week that it is criminal for teachers to demand payment for extra lessons.
Responding to a question from Senator Omega Sipani-Hungwe in the Senate on Thursday, Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>The other issue of teachers demanding money for extra lessons, I think this is now a criminal activity because that is not allowed. This is not their mandate and not what they are supposed to be doing.
We can never deprive children of the opportunity to learn, then we have teachers who do not teach — that is unacceptable because our children are supposed to be learning.</blockquote>
Minister Mutsvangwa, speaking in her capacity as Leader of Governemnt business in the Senate, added:
<blockquote>If there are teachers who are getting into class and not doing anything, I am sure that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has inspectors amongst them.
I think it is a report that should be brought forward so that such characters are dealt with.
We expect those who are supposed to teach to teach.</blockquote>
Reports indicate that the poorly-paid teachers are demanding between US$10 to US$20 per learner for extra lessons.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/teachers-warned-over-forced-extra-lessons" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Govt Warns Teachers Over Forced Extra Lessons

Teachers have been warned against conducting physical extra lesson as this is in violation of COVID-19 lockdown regulations.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education director of communications, Taungana Ndoro, said only online lessons are permitted and teachers who violate the coronavirus containment regulations by conducting face to face lessons will be prosecuted. Ndoro said:
<blockquote>We are clear when it comes to the issue of extra lessons. We have made it clear that only online lessons have been permitted.
Physical lessons, where teachers gather pupils at some location are illegal as there will be no mechanism to monitor adherence to guidelines so that they do not become spreaders of this pandemic.
Therefore, teachers who are conducting these lessons are liable for prosecution for defying COVID-19 lockdown regulations.</blockquote>
Ndoro added that teachers should be responsible and avoid greediness which will only expose their pupils to the deadly coronavirus. He said:
<blockquote>Our call, therefore, is for the teachers to be responsible and not be pushed by greed to conduct these physical lessons, while at the same time exposing themselves and their pupils to the pandemic.</blockquote>
Some teachers countrywide have resorted to offering extra lesson services to pupils to augment their salaries which are now a fraction of their pre-October 2018 earnings.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/teachers-warned-on-private-lessons/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

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