Pupils Barred From Writing Mid-Year Tests Over Unpaid Bus Levy

Some learners at Mafakela Primary School in Bulawayo were reportedly prevented from writing their mid-term examinations after failing to pay a US$25 bus levy.

Despite having paid their tuition fees, several pupils were excluded from sitting for tests last week due to non-payment of the levy.

Those affected were allegedly diverted to home economics classes, while their peers proceeded with the examinations.

When contacted by CITE, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s Director of Communications and Advocacy, Taungana Ndoro, confirmed the incident and said the government had intervened promptly. Said Ndoro:

We wish to reassure the nation that the Government of Zimbabwe takes such allegations seriously and is acting decisively to address this matter. The Ministry confirms it is now fully apprised of the situation at Mafakela Primary school.

Ndoro said Section 75 of the Constitution, the Education Act (Chapter 25:04), and Ministry directives like Secretary’s Minute Number 2 of 2024 affirm every child’s right to education.

He stressed that no learner should be denied the opportunity to write examinations due to financial difficulties, and confirmed that the pupils affected at Mafakela Primary School must be reinstated without delay to complete their mid-term assessments.

Ndoro added that any school authorities found to have contravened this policy would be subject to disciplinary action under civil service guidelines. He said:

Corrective action is underway, and the Ministry will ensure accountability. We urge the public to report any similar violations immediately to their Provincial Education Director.

More: CITE

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