Education a basic human right

NOW that schools are re-opening after the delays induced by the Covid-19 pandemic, it gives a refreshing sense of relief for parents who have watched their children stay at home at a time they should be busy with their studies in school.

For the learners and teachers, it is a positive development that now presents a chance to catch up with their syllabi and ensure continuity to their studies.

It needs not be over emphasized that the lengthy lay-off from the school environment had come at a social and moral cost with most children of school going age engaging in different nefarious activities in various communities across the country.

We sincerely hope that those greedy school authorities will not use the opportunity to put a strain on parents and guardians.

In the past, we have seen authorities running our educational institutions increasing their fees to unacceptable levels.

We all know and understand that learning comes at a cost but considering that it is a basic human right for every child, we strongly feel that the service should not be placed beyond the reach of the common men and women in our communities.

We strongly applaud Government for chipping in and ensuring that all school fees increases will only be done with the approval of the responsible Ministry.

Government, through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, has made it clear that those that will increase school fees without the necessary approval will be dealt with accordingly.

We also hope that teachers and learners will have ample time to cover up their syllabi such that by the time end of year exams are written, all concepts would have been covered. While we accept and acknowledge the need for better remuneration and living standards for teachers, we strongly hope that they also understand their responsibility to the nation.

Reports that some teachers in public institutions are taking a lackadaisical approach to their duties during the morning and then removing their neckties after hours for serious lessons with a few paid up students are really sad. It is not only irresponsible but also unacceptable for teachers to do this.

Genuine concerns for teachers will always be addressed through normal channels and platforms that are available through their representative bodies and Government.

As schools re-open for the year 2022, we also hope we will not experience a sudden increase again of Covid19 cases.

The good thing is that Government has done its part in making sure that schools, even those in remote parts of the county, have enough personal protective equipment to avoid another upsurge in Covid-19 cases in schools.

We can only achieve that if we are sharing the common goal of building a better Zimbabwe for us all.

The recent confirmation by acting provincial education director, Mr Richard Gabaza, that they have dispatched personal protective equipment to schools around the province are not only encouraging but speaks to the country’s central authority’s determination to see learners off the streets and back in schools. All we need to bear in mind is that Covid-19 has affected everyone around the globe and we are no exception.

However the need to minimise the losses remains critical.