Civil Engineer: Contract (Hwange)

Auto Electrician (Hwange)

Attachee: Sales and Marketing (Harare)

Planning Officer (Bulawayo)

Receptionist (Harare)

Semi-Skilled Cook (Chipinge)

IT Officer

Human Resources Officer

Stores Assistant

Project Coordinator

Graduate Trainee: Agronomy (Chisumbanje)

Estimator – Auto Body Centre Harare

Apprenticeship Trainee- Millwright

Graduate Trainee Program (Traineeship)

Students On Attachment (Various Departments)

Information Technology Graduate Trainee (Chisumbanje)

Counselor

Field Officer

Project Driver (Hwange)

Registered General Nurse (RGN) (Harare)

Intensive Care Nurse (ICN) (Harare)

Sales Agents x50

Tobacco Programmes Officer (Harare)

Payroll Clerk (Harare)

Merchant Services Manager (Harare)

Library Technical Assistant

Assistant Binder

Broadcast Technician

Research, Innovation and Industry Linkage Officer (RIILO)

Safety, Health and Environmental (SHE) Officer

Procurement Officer

Intellectual Property Management Officer

Research Officers x2

Business Development Officers x2

Innovation Lead (Engineering)

Innovation Lead (Arts & Creative Industries)

Innovation Manager

Public Health Specialist: Prevention, Care & Treatment (Harare)

Driver (Kariba)

Relief Drivers x8

Business Intelligence Analyst (Harare)

Contact Centre Agent-1 (Harare)

Switchboard Operator (OMAO) (Harare)

Procurement Manager (Bulawayo)

Auditor - ICT & Internal Control (Harare)

Legal Officer (Harare)

Auditor (Harare)

Director General (Harare)

Newly-appointed Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Evelyn Ndlovu was sworn in by President Mnangagwa at State House in Harare yesterday.
She replaced Cain Mathema who is now the Minister Without Portfolio in the Office of the President and Cabinet.
In a brief interview after her swearing-in, before she joined other Cabinet ministers, Ndlovu said the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted schooling, has also taught the country a lesson on how it can move forward. She said:
<blockquote>
I am going into the meeting to join the rest of the ministers, to go and listen, there is no time to go into the office. I brought my files, I am a moving office . . . COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that we should look at the issues of ICT by all schools and their access.
</blockquote>
Her predecessor, Mathema, had been appointed Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage in September 2018 before he was “demoted” to the Education portfolio in November 2019.
Mathema was the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Matebeleland North (September 2013 – October 2017), Minister of War Veterans (October 2017 – November 2017), and in Mnangagwa’s government Minister of State for Matabeleland North (December 2017 – September 2018).
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/new-education-minister-hits-ground-running/">The Herald</a></h4>

Pindula News

New Education Minister, Evelyn Ndlovu, Sworn In

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Cain Mathema is alive contrary to reports that he has died.
Social media platforms have since Wednesday been awash with rumours of Mathema’s demise after reports said he had been airlifted to Harare from the COVID-19 treatment facility at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) after his condition deteriorated.
READ MORE| <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/09/01/covid-19-battling-minister-mathema-airlifted-to-harare/">COVID-19-Battling Minister Mathema Airlifted To Harare</a>
In an interview with CITE, Director of Communications and Advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Taungana Ndoro, denied reports that Mathema had died of COVID-19 complications.
Ndoro said Mathema was as “fit as a fiddle”, though he confirmed that the former Home Affairs Minister “had been not feeling well.” Ndoro added:
<blockquote>
That confirmation as to whether he has COVID-19 can only come from their Doctor as there is the Doctor and Patient Confidentiality to say whether one has COVID-19, Hypertension or AIDS.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday reports claimed Mathema had been airlifted to Harare from Bulawayo on 28 August after his health deteriorated.
The 74-year-old was reportedly taken to Arundel Mediclinic.
<img decoding="async" src="https://cite.org.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot_20210902-123727_Twitter-982x1024.jpg"/>
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/govt-refutes-reports-of-minister-mathemas-death/">CITE</a></h4>

Govt Refutes Reports Of Minister Cain Mathema's Death

Primary and secondary education minister Cain Ginyilitshe Mathema has been airlifted to Harare from Bulawayo after his health deteriorated.
The 74-year-old was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/20/education-minister-cain-mathema-hospitalised-with-covid-19/">admitted to the United Bulawayo Hospitals’ refurbished</a> Covid-19 facility in mid-August after catching the respiratory illness.
<a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2021/08/31/covid-battling-minister-mathema-airlifted-to-harare-as-health-deteriorates/">ZimLive</a> was told that the minister was flown to Harare on August 28 and is now admitted at Arundel Mediclinic. One person briefed on the minister’s condition said:
<blockquote>
He had excessive fluids in his lungs and was getting progressively worse. I understand some kind of surgical procedure has been performed. He’s not in a good shape, but he’s battling.
</blockquote>
Mathema did not take part in the decision to re-open schools this week, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/27/school-reopening-teachers-parents-ambushed-ptuz/">criticised as an “ambush” by teachers’ unions and parents</a> over the short notice given by the government.
Zimbabwe’s Covid-19 infections have gone down dramatically since June when schools were supposed to re-open for the second term. On Monday, there were 144 new infections detected and 15 deaths, according to the ministry of health. 
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has indicated that about 98 per cent of coronavirus cases recorded in Zimbabwe recently are of the highly contagious Delta variant that was first detected in India.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2021/08/31/covid-battling-minister-mathema-airlifted-to-harare-as-health-deteriorates/">ZimLive</a>

COVID-19-Battling Minister Mathema Airlifted To Harare

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) has dispatched a circular to schools advising them of the new calendar and guidelines on adjusting school fees.
In a circular sent to Chief Directors, Head Office Directors, Provincial Education Directors, District Schools Inspectors, Primary School Heads, Secondary School Heads, Principals of Independent Colleges, Staff Associations, Responsible Authorities, Association of Trust Schools, and Church Education Secretaries, MoPSE said fees and levies will be charged on a prorata (proportionate) basis. Pindula News presents the circular below.
<blockquote>
<h2> REF: STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR THE OPENING OF SCHOOLS FOR THE SECOND AND FINAL SESSION 2021</h2>
<h2>1.0 INTRODUCTION </h2>
Primary and Secondary Schools will be opening for the second and final session 2021 in two (2) phases. The 2021 examination classes (Grade 7, Forms 4 and 6) will open first on the 30th of August 2021 followed by the rest of the classes on the 6th of September 2021. It is against this background that all teachers are expected to report for duty by the 30th of August 2021. 
In view of the current 3rd wave COVID-19 that the nation is experiencing, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education reiterates the need for strict and close observance of the World Health Organisation (W.H.0) and Ministry of Health and Child Care protocols and guidelines. Schools are therefore reminded to adhere to the provisions of the Standard Operating Procedures (5.0. Ps) guide as read with the Standard Guidelines for the Coordinated Prevention and Management of the COVID-19 pandemic at all Learning Institutions of Zimbabwe to ensure a safe, secure and healthy environment for learners, teachers and all stakeholders. 
<h2>2.0 Application of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) </h2>
2.1 The Standard Operating Procedures guide the day to day operations of all registered Government, Non-Government schools and Independent Colleges. 
2.2 The SOPs provide guidelines to schools on the preparations that need to be made for the opening of schools and the procedures to be followed when schools are open. 
2.3 All relevant stakeholders should acquaint themselves with the SOPs as they contain provisions that are mandatory. 
2.4 The SOPs will be reviewed as and when it is deemed necessary. 
<h2>3.0 Charging of fees and levies for the second and final session 2021</h2>
The average length of each term is about 60 days but this second and final session will be 80 days (30 August to 17 December 2021). The fees and levies for the second and final session 2021 will be charged on a pro-rata basis given by: number of days in the final session divided by average number of days in a term multiplied by approved fees and levies for each term. 
<h2>4.0 Activities to be undertaken by School Heads </h2>
4.1 All schools are obliged to do the following activities: 
• Ensure that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is in place and in adequate quantities. 
• Ensure decongestion, where necessary, by arranging that learners attend school on alternate days and in sessions for mega schools. Examination classes have to attend every day. 
• Conduct refresher training sessions for Deputy Heads, School Health Coordinators and teachers. 
• Conduct regular COVID-19 awareness sessions for everyone in the school, including School Parents Assemblies (SPAs). 
• Disinfect school premises including hostels and sanitize frequently touched surfaces. 
• Clean the school environment regularly. 
• Provide infrared thermometers and ensure screening of every person that enters the school premises. 
• Designate a holding bay for any learner, member of staff or visitor identified to be unwell. 
• In boarding schools, establish and fully monitor sick bays 
• Display the contact details for the nearest health care facility or team. 
• Provide litter bins for every class and at all strategic areas. 
• Provide hand washing facilities for every class and a washing station at every entry point. 
• Ensure the availability of liquid soap and/or hand sanitisers at every entry point. 
• Enforce the wearing of face masks by all pupils, staff and visitors. 
• Limit visitors to the school to only those that are essential. 
2 • Enforce the maintenance of social/ physical distancing at the school, including in the hostels, at all times. 
• Stand guided by the Ministry of Health and Child Care for any other activities. 
• Maintain an accurate contact register. 
• Keep doors and windows open to ensure adequate ventilation. 
• Create and regularly update a social-register/ database for both learners and teachers. 
• Display Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials at all strategic places. 
<h2>5.0 Conclusion </h2>
Addressees are reminded of the need to ensure the safety of learners, staff and visitors at all times. It is therefore important for all stakeholders to embrace this new normal as the Ministry forges ahead with its mandate of providing inclusive, relevant and quality education. Strict adherence to W.H.O COVID 19 protocols and Ministry of Health and Child Care guidelines is thus demanded at all times. 
<img alt="Image" class="css-9pa8cd" decoding="async" draggable="true" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E9yVICXXoAIlYlh?format=jpg&amp;name=4096x4096"/>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Govt Advises Schools On Charging Fees And Levies For The Second Term

Primary and Secondary Education minister Cain Mathema has reportedly been hospitalised after contracting the coronavirus.
ZimLive reported a source as saying the 74-year-old is “stable” at a private hospital in Bulawayo. Said the source:
<blockquote>
It’s been a rough few days for him. He’s relatively stable, he’s battling.
</blockquote>
Mathema’s last known public engagement was a tour of Loreto High School in Silobela on 6 August.
Zimbabwe recorded 404 new COVID-19 infections and 17 deaths on Thursday. The Ministry of Health and Childcare says 417 people are hospitalised with the respiratory illness, 38 of them considered severe and 19 are in the intensive care unit.
Official figures indicate that at least 4 198 Zimbabweans have died from 121 902 infections since the coronavirus was first detected in March last year.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2021/08/20/primary-and-secondary-education-minister-cain-mathema-battles-covid-19/">ZimLive</a></h4>

Education Minister Cain Mathema Hospitalised With COVID-19

Some schools heads in Masvingo Province say they are ready to open for the second term since measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of learners.
This emerged on Thursday after a tour of some schools in the province by Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema.
Mathema said some of the schools were putting in place measures to provide learners with personal protective equipment (PPE) and clean water. He said:
<blockquote>
Those schools that we have visited say they are ready to reopen once the President gives them that directive.
We have seen preparations they are making; they are all following the World Health Organisation protocols.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, teachers’ unions on Wednesday said that a majority of their members were yet to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and were psychologically unprepared for school reopening.
<ul>
<li class="entry-title">
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/05/unvaccinated-teachers-unprepared-for-schools-reopening-unions/">Unvaccinated Teachers Unprepared For Schools Reopening – Unions</a></h2>
</li>
</ul>
Government last week gazetted Statutory Instrument (SI) 210 of 2021, stating that schools will remain closed until August 10, 2021, but preparing to reopen.
However, teachers’ unions have expressed reservations over the impending reopening of schools citing a lack of preparedness on the part of their members, the majority of whom were not vaccinated.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/some-schools-ready-to-open/">The Herald</a></h4>

"Some Schools Ready To Reopen"

Primary and Secondary Education minister Cain Mathema has challenged schools to commercialise their projects so that they can contribute to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
He said the government has approved the strategy for schools to engage in commercial ventures. Mathema, however, warned against using learners as a source of cheap labour.
He made the remarks on Thursday during a tour of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa-run Tennyson Hlabangana High School in Bulawayo, which is undertaking several income-generating projects. Said Mathema:
<blockquote>
Government has approved the strategy for schools to engage in commercial ventures for sustainable development and lifelong learning as part of its efforts to implement a transformative agenda that is geared at promoting sustainable economic development and the betterment of the lives of the people of Zimbabwe.
Given the number of schools and students in the primary and secondary education sector, the potential to contribute to the country’s GDP is significant.
The objective is to create value while advancing the educational goals if the commercial ventures are effectively and efficiently executed.
The commercial ventures in schools will bring the ‘shop floor’ to the school. Pupils can now experience some areas of work in the comfort of their own schools.
However, I would like to emphasise that pupils should not be used as sources of cheap labour.
</blockquote>
Mathema said viable commercial ventures should have full-time managers and employees to support learners with the technical skills they need during practical lessons.
The minister said in the course of time, they expect that school business ventures would be able to produce quality goods, making schools cost-effective providers of quality education.
Bulawayo Metropolitan Affairs minister Judith Ncube welcomed the new thrust, saying it will improve the capability and behaviour of pupils.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/07/schools-urged-to-commercialise-contribute-to-gdp/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Schools Urged To Engage In Commercial Ventures, Contribute To GDP

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema said that no date has been set for the opening of schools and once it has been set, President Emmerson Mnangagwa will announce it to the public.
Mathema said this on Thursday after the launch of the Vision of Primary and Secondary Education (VOPSE) 2030 Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Chapter. He said:
<blockquote>
People will be informed by the President on when the schools have been opened when he has set the date. We are all directed by the His Excellency and we get directives and guidance from him.
In the meantime, parents have to ensure they prepare their children for the opening of schools by providing them with masks.
Government will do its bit but parents too have to do their bit because Government alone can’t do everything.
Parents must protect their children as we abide by Ministry of Health and Child Care regulations.
Last year our schools did well to prepare for opening and preparations are currently underway. We want to learn from our mistakes and improve from last time.
For now, people must just know that schools will be opened at the time when the President says they will be opened.
</blockquote>
Mathema conducted a tour of projects at Tennyson Hlabangana High School and Ntabeni Primary School.
He said funds from such projects would also help schools to set up online infrastructure.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/watch-no-date-yet-for-schools-reopening/">Chronicle</a></h4>

No Date Yet For Schools Reopening

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema on Wednesday told Parliament that schools will reopen once President Emmerson Mnangagwa gives the directive.
He said this during a question and answer session in the National Assembly adding that he would soon issue a ministerial statement in the House on the country’s preparedness for resumption of lessons. Said Mathema:
<blockquote>Once we are given the directive by His Excellency, we will open schools.</blockquote>
MPs had grilled Mathema over measures that his ministry was taking to ensure the safety of schoolchildren and teachers before the opening of schools.
Mathema stated that preparations for the opening of schools were ongoing and Government would draw lessons from past experiences to ensure the safety of learners in the institutions. He said:
<blockquote>We have had this pandemic since last year and within the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, we have done all we could, and we are doing all we can to make sure we protect the children.
The ministry will do whatever is required to make sure that children are protected and everybody is protected…
We will also learn from other countries, but we want to assure the nation that we will do everything in our power to ensure the children’s safety.
When the time comes, we will go out of our way to make sure that schools are open and children will be protected. We will manage this as we have done in the past.</blockquote>
On exemption letters for children learning at private institutions, Mathema said they would be issued. He said:
<blockquote>If there is any need, we will issue those exemption letters depending on what is on the ground.</blockquote>
Schools were supposed to have opened on 28 June but owing to the surge in coronavirus infections, the opening was initially deferred for two weeks, then another two weeks on 12 July and now deferred again.
Meanwhile, teachers’ unions have demanded that Finance minister Mthuli Ncube writes off second term fees as incomes of a majority of people, including teachers, have been hit by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy and recurrent lockdowns.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/07/schools-will-reopen-as-directed-by-ed-mathema/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Schools To Reopen When Mnangagwa Issues Directive - Mathema

Following the indefinite postponement of the reopening of schools for the second term, a Cabinet Minister has said there is a need to realign the school calendar to suit the current situation.
Schools were initially scheduled to reopen on 28 June but the date was put forward by two weeks as coronavirus infections spiked across the country.
Then on Tuesday, the government announced that schools will remain closed for another two weeks as a result of the surging COVID-19 cases and deaths.
In a wide-ranging interview with The Manica Post on the sidelines of the Vision of Primary and Secondary Education (VOPSE) launch at Mt Melleray Primary School in Nyanga on Monday, Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Cain Mathema said:
<blockquote>Let us have an open mindset. Nobody knows when this pandemic will end. We have to find solutions and find ways of living with this pandemic while making sure that we protect our kids, our teachers and the nation at large.
In the 1980s,l remember people were scared to interact with HIV positive people. The public thought that HIV was capable of flying in the air and infecting them. However, with the passage of time, we learnt to live with HIV and Aids.
This is the same thing going on. It has to start in the home. Parents should make sure no child leaves the home without a mask.
The truth is that we do not know when this pandemic will come to an end. We, therefore, cannot have a situation where our children do not go to school forever.</blockquote>
Mathema said while they would want classes to resume, his Ministry does not operate in a vacuum. He said:
<blockquote>However, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education does not operate in a vacuum.
We give our input and other line ministries such as the Ministry of Health and Child Care also chip in with theirs to come up with the best position for the country.</blockquote>
This year schools opened for the first term on 15 March instead of the second week of January as is the norm because of the second wave of COVID-19.
As the third wave of COVID-19 rages on, with new infections and deaths rising, schools may not be reopening any time soon.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/govt-moots-new-school-calendar/">Manica Post</a></h4>

Govt Mulls New School Calendar

The Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trusts (ZNOART) has written to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Cain Mathema expressing concern over the seizure of Southlea Park Primary School by certain individuals.
This comes after Southlea Park residents, in the Harare South constituency, recently stormed the school in protest over the government’s threat to withdraw teachers from the institution because it is now privately owned.
The landowners secretly registered the school under private ownership, while residents claimed they built the school using their own funds, hence it could not be registered as a private entity.
In a letter dated 05 May 2021 and addressed to Matema, ZNOART, which is an Apex body representing all associations and residents in Zimbabwe, said:
<blockquote>We are aware and in possession of previous communications between our affiliate bodies and your office in trying to get the matter addressed but to date, the matter has not seen the light of the day and residents are now in a quandary with the latest developments.
We are advised that sometime this week the District Schools Inspectorate (DSI) went to the school and advised the teachers that they were to be transferred to other centres since the school cannot continue to operate with government teachers in light of it being a private institution.
This unfortunate development has brought confusion to the whole community in view of the fact that they are the ones that built the school.
I am sure you have received reports about the conversion of institutional land in Harare South to private land without following due processes.</blockquote>
ZNOART pleaded with Mathema to deal with the situation as a matter of urgency as hundreds of learners could be left without teachers.

Residents Plead With Mathema To Resolve Southlea Park School Dispute

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema has directed school authorities to submit names of teachers who have not been reporting for duty this term as the government moves to enforce the “no work, no pay” principle.
Some trade unions representing teachers have advised their members to report for work once per week and coincidentally, the number of teachers reporting for duty has dwindled as they cite incapacitation.
Speaking in Parliament during a question-and-answer session, Minister Mathema also claimed that he has not received any representation from teachers’ unions pertaining to their grievances. He said:
<blockquote>I have heard that there are some schools where teachers are not going to work. What we are saying is that no work, no pay to those teachers who are not at work.
We are working with school heads to have registers so that I pass on that information to the Public Service Commission and the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
We cannot have a situation where teachers just decide not to go to work. As the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, I have not received any representation from any of the teachers’ unions in the country. So, no work, no pay.</blockquote>
The government offered a 25 per cent salary increment to civil servants from this month while a further 50 per cent would be effected in June.
However, teachers want the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries of between US$500 and US$550 or the equivalent in RTGS dollars.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-enforces-no-work-no-pay-policy/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

Government Enforces ‘No Work, No Pay’ Policy

The government could be able to offer free education for all Zimbabwean children when joint ventures for schools come to fruition.
Cabinet last week approved a new teaching approach aimed not only at academic excellence but also at profit-making in schools through the commercialisation of practical subjects and fostering joint ventures with private investors.
Speaking on Sunday, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema said the message was being carried down to school heads to start the model immediately. He said:
<blockquote>Proceeds of these commercial ventures will be used to fund programmes at schools and relieve parents of the burden of paying fees.
School commercial ventures should enable schools to employ full-time appropriate managers and employees paid by proceeds from the ventures. Some schools are already doing this.
Therefore, pupils should not be used as sources of cheap labour, as the Ministry observes the declaration of rights enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe, on freedom from slavery.
Pupils will be involved in applied learning as we shift to participatory and learner-centred and interactive methodologies.
It is, therefore, of paramount importance to turn all public schools into economic centres through commercial ventures that use local resources.
Where appropriate each school should enter into joint ventures with private investors.
Such endeavours will lead to free education which the Government is supposed to offer according to chapter 1 part 27 of the Constitution.
Once we offer free education, it means President Mnangagwa would have relieved each family of the burden of paying for schools fees.</blockquote>
The new model was hailed by the National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH) president Arthur Maposa who said schools are willing to adopt it.
National Association of Primary Heads (NAPH) president Cynthia Khumalo said schools can implement the model successfully if it is supported by the government.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/cabinet-okays-joint-ventures-for-schools/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

'Free Education For All A Possibility'

The government says it will only pay teachers who are reporting for duty and those charging pupils for extra lessons will be fired.
This follows reports that some teachers across the country were no longer reporting for duty and those who were going to work were not teaching.
Teachers and civil servants, in general, have been pushing for a living wage since 2019 as their current salaries are pitiful.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema said the ministry was now invoking the principle of paying only those teachers reporting for duty. He said:
<blockquote>We are summoning the principle of no work no salary with immediate effect. Teachers who do not report for duty or those who go to their schools and not do their work will not be paid.
We have requested school heads to compile lists of such names and we will forward them to the Public Service Commission so that those not doing their work will not be paid.</blockquote>
Mathema said the government was aware of teachers’ remuneration concerns and they are being addressed through the proper channels.
Mathema further warned teachers doing private extra lessons for a premium that they were not allowed to do so. He said:
<blockquote>Government is also warning teachers who are doing private lessons.
There is a trend that some teachers are no longer doing their jobs at schools, but doing private lessons instead.
That is not allowed and the Government is following up on these unlawful acts.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/striking-teachers-will-lose-benefits/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

'Teachers Not Reporting For Duty Will Not Be Paid'

The opposition ZAPU will on Saturday hold its National People’s Council (NPC) meeting.
Top of the agenda will be the proposed recall from Parliament of former senior party members who are now Zanu PF MPs.
The targeted officials are Simon Khaya Moyo, Cain Mathema and Sithembiso Nyoni.
Khaya Moyo is the current Zanu PF national spokesperson with Mathema serving as Education Minister and Nyoni as the Small Enterprises Minister.
The three remained in Zanu PF when some former PF Zapu officials in 2008 dumped the 1987 unity accord to revive ZAPU.
Reports suggest that there was a general agreement in the party that all former Zapu members who are sitting MPs should be recalled.
NewZimbabwe.com reported ZAPU sources as saying the NPC, which is the party’s highest decision making organ in between congress, was going to endorse the recalls Saturday.
The meeting will be held in Bulawayo.
ZAPU says the recent recalls of MDC Alliance MPs by the MDC-T and PDP informed its own decision to withdraw its former officials.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zapu-to-decide-on-sk-moyo-mathemas-fate-on-parly-recalls-saturday/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

ZAPU To State Final Position On Recalling Zanu PF MPs

ZAPU at its last national executive committee (NEC) last weekend reportedly discussed the possibility of recalling some of its members like Cain Mathema, Sithembiso Moyo and SK Moyo from parliament, Newsday Reports.
A source privy to the developments said ZAPU is currently consulting their legal team on the issue. The source reportedly pointed at the current recalls in the MDC Alliance as their point of reference and said:
<blockquote>I can confirm that out national executive met last week and discussed several pertinent issues including our preparations for the forthcoming congress. On the issue of recalls, which you have asked about, I can confirm our legal team has noted that a precedent has been set following the recent recalls of MDC Alliance MPs.
We still have some Zapu people purporting to be the party’s members in government yet their membership with Zapu has ceased since the unity accord is now dead. These people are now subject to recall from Parliament by Zapu.</blockquote>
The issue was also confirmed by Zapu’s secretary for international relations Future Masebele who said the precedence has been set:
<blockquote>The issue of recalls has been extensively discussed at various Zapu platforms. I had a meeting with ZIPRA after the national executive committee meeting. We discussed many strategic issues and the issue of recalls was also on the agenda.
The precedent has been set and we are working with our legal team and also with ZIPRA structures to identify those who claim to be Zapu members in government and who no longer represent the values of the party.</blockquote>
Zanu PF was an alliance of  Zanu and PF Zapu through the 1987 unity accord, and people like Mathema, SK Moyo and Nyoni have remained in Zanu PF since then.
The presence they are using was set a few weeks ago <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/16/tendai-biti-faces-recall-from-parliament/">when the High Court ruled that the PDP</a> could recall Biti and his other PDP MPs who were recalled the very next day after the ruling.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zapu-plots-sk-moyo-mathema-nyoni-parly-recalls/">New Zimbabwe </a>

ZAPU Planning To Recall SK Moyo, Cain Mathema And Sithembiso Nyoni From Parly - Report

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has introduced a Catch-up strategy for primary and secondary school pupils that will see learners completing 2020 material before proceeding to this year’s classes.
Schools were closed for the greater part of last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and pupils lost a great deal of learning time as a result.
Under the programme, pupils will have to redo their preceding levels syllabi in the first term before proceeding to the next level where necessary.
For instance, those who are in Grade Two this year will have to first complete the Grade One material.
The Catch-up strategy document, which was sent to schools and District School Inspectors, was signed by the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Cain Mathema last week.
The new learning model provides guidelines for the practical delivery of blended teaching and learning, catch-up activities to compensate for lost learning time, and a coordinated system for accelerated learning.
This will involve the use of alternative learning platforms for the benefit of pupils. Said Mathema:
<blockquote>The guidelines in this strategy are intended to trigger more school-based innovative strategies for the inclusive, full coverage of syllabi to cover up lost teaching and learning time.
The catch-up strategies are grouped into three categories, namely content, learner and teacher enhancement strategies.</blockquote>
Mathema said the blended teaching and learning approach makes use of both the traditional face-to-face classroom interaction, online learning, home and school-led community-based learning.
Tutorial support will be provided as well as the use of printed self-study guides, revision notes and other modules.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/compressed-syllabus-introduced-in-schools/">Sunday News</a></h4>

Govt Introduces Compressed Syllabus In Schools

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema said that schools reopened last week with no problems and he expects the return of all learners to classes this Monday to be incident-free as well.
Speaking to State media on Sunday, Mathema thanked stakeholders including teachers, parents and learners for adapting to the normal compulsory safety protocols. He said:
<blockquote>The education sector has adjusted to the new normal. Last week we resumed lessons for examination classes without any problem and we expect the same this week with the rest of the classes.
Teachers who were supposed to report for duty last week reported. I want to commend parents, learners and teachers for the way they have managed the resumption of classes under the circumstances.
The measures prescribed by the Ministry of Health and Child Care for a safe resumption of classes are now in place and we are ready for the resumption of classes.
Everyone is ready and we expect a safe resumption of classes tomorrow (today) as some learners have started going to school, joining those who resumed their lessons last week</blockquote>
National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH) president Arthur Maphosa also said schools opened last week without any major challenges and they expect the prevailing situation to continue.
National Association of Primary Heads (NAPH) president Cynthia Khumalo said they are ready to welcome all pupils back to school though there are still challenges regarding social distancing protocols in some schools.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/last-batch-of-learners-returns-to-school/">The Herald</a></h4>

Govt Expects Resumptions Of All Classes To Be Incident-free

The Government has threatened to close schools that will bar pupils from attending classes for failure to pay schools fees.
This comes after some schools have informed parents and guardians that pupils will not be allowed within the school premises if they do not show proof of payment.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema told Sunday News Saturday that school heads are aware of the consequences of chasing away pupils over the non-payment of tuition. He said:
<blockquote>These schools are fully aware of the procedures to be followed when they want to increase fees, they know the consequences if they decide to increase without the consent of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry. What we are saying is that authorities should not be allowed to benefit from anything.
It is also illegal for schools to then bar pupils from school owing to non-payment of fees, school heads know all this and they know that the ministry has the power to close them if they ignore these directives.</blockquote>
Schools open tomorrow, Monday 15 March 2021, for the first term for examination classes and the rest of the classes will open on 22 March.
According to the new calendar, the first term will end on 4 June, the second term will begin on 28 June ending on 10 September 10 while the third term will start on 4 October ending on 17 December.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/bar-pupils-over-fees-and-face-closure-govenment-warns-schools/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

Schools Risk Closure For Barring Pupils Over Fees

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Cain Mathema has seemingly threatened teachers planning to go on a strike when schools reopen next week and said they will be deploying new recruits to stations where teachers do not report for duty, ZBC News reports.
In a statement in which he was announcing <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/11/govt-to-recruit-3000-teachers/">that the government will be recruiting 3000</a> new teachers Mathema said:
<blockquote>When schools have reopened we will be assessing those not reporting for duty to guide our deployment of those we are employing. There is a time frame for absenteeism and if we exceed that it means probably they will not be coming. But like I said we are still going to employ 3 000 soon and the assessment process will only assists us in terms of deployment of teachers,</blockquote>
This was after teachers told the government that they might not be able to report for duty because they are incapacitated. Civil servants are reportedly also planning a full-blown strike as they all cite incapacitation.
More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/3-000-more-teachers-to-be-recruited/">ZBC News</a>

We Will Be Assessing Those That Do Not Report For Duty To Guide Our Deployment - Mathema Threatens Teachers

The government will reportedly recruit 3000 teachers when schools reopen soon, ZBC news reports. The move is meant to cope with the COVID-19 regulations imposed by WHO to curb spreading the novel coronavirus which has brought the world to a standstill.
This was revealed by the Primary and Secondary education Minister Cain Mathema who said their aim was to break classes into smaller groups and have 35 students per class:
<blockquote>We are employing 3 000 more teachers soon so that they will start working during the first term. Covid-19 regulations require that we break classes into smaller groups of not more than 35, and to do that we have to employ more teachers. 
The President ordered that we should employ all qualified teachers. He said we cannot just be training teachers and not employing them. So with this recruitment we are implementing what was directed by the President,</blockquote>
Mathema also urged teachers to be vaccinated ahead of schools reopening in case they will be exposed to the virus at work:
<blockquote>It is a policy position and we will implement it, but we are not doing this alone. We are working with colleagues from the Ministry of Health and Child Care. We urge all teachers to be vaccinated. Experts have advised that it is safe and we encourage them to accept these vaccines.
However, it is important to note that the vaccinations are voluntary and those willing should take. No one is forced to be vaccinated but like I said experts have told us that we are better off getting vaccinated to be able to respond to this virus.</blockquote>
Schools will open first on <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/02/schools-to-reopen-on-15-and-22-march-government/">15 March for writing classes then for the rest of the students on 22 March 2021</a>. Teachers have already said they might not report for duty due to incapacitation as they compel the government to pay them more.
More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/3-000-more-teachers-to-be-recruited/">ZBC News </a>

Govt To Recruit 3000 Teachers

Matabeleland Zanu PF heavyweights reportedly took turns to bootlick president Mnangagwa at the Zanu PF politburo meeting hoping to get on his good side as he will be expected to appoint a second Vice President soon to <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/01/breaking-mohadi-resigns/">replace Kembo Mohadi</a> who resigned on Monday, The Zimbabwe Independent reports.
This was revealed to the publication by a Zanu PF official that to the Zim Independent that Matabeleland Zanu PF heavyweights tried to impress President Mnangagwa so bad it delayed the meeting:
<blockquote>Politburo discussions centered on steps the government is taking to implement the MZWP and benefits it will bring to the people
Interestingly, it became very clear that the comrades from Matabeleland, who are former Zapu members, came to life and fiercely tried to outsmart each other to please Mnangagwa. As a result, this agenda consumed time.
One would get the feeling that a Matabeleland clique found an opportunity during discussions on the water project to present themselves as potential replacements for Mohadi.</blockquote>
The Matabeleland Zanu PF Heavyweights who are reportedly vying for the vacant post are Party spokesperson Simon Khaya Moyo, Primary and Secondary Education minister Cain Mathema and Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda.
President Mnangagwa is expected to pick Mohadi’s replacement from the Zapu as provided for in the 1987 Unity Accord.
More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2021/03/05/tight-race-for-vp-post/">Zimbabwe Independent</a>

Matabeleland Zanu PF Heavyweights Took Turns To Bootlick ED On Wednesday - Report

Cain Mathema, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Primary and Secondary Education has been mentioned as a potential replacement to Vice President Kembo Mohadi who resigned Monday following accusations that he was bedding his married aides.
We list below a number of things you probably didn’t know about Cain Mathema.
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>He is the former Minister of Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators and Former Political Detainees October 2017 to November 2017; Former Minister of Home Affairs and Culture Heritage September 2018 to November 2019.</li>
<li> He joined the armed struggle under ZIPRA in April 1968 and did military intelligence and communications training in Moscow 1968-1969.</li>
<li>He is a former Member of Parliament for Tsholotsho (1995-2000) and was Governor and Resident Minister – Bulawayo Metropolitan Province from 2004 to September 2013</li>
<li>He’s a Ndebele and English poet, playwright, author of short stories, author of over 15 books in politics, economics, political economy and literature including “Wealth and Power: An Introduction to Political Economy (1988)”.</li>
<li>In December 2010, as Governor of Bulawayo, Mathema said that the bones of <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Cecil_John_Rhodes" title="Cecil John Rhodes">Cecil John Rhodes</a>, the founder of Rhodesia, were supposed to be be immediately exhumed and sent back to Britain as it was an affront to postcolonial sensibilities. he also said Victoria Falls was supposed to revert to its original name from the <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Tonga&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Tonga (page does not exist)">Tonga</a> language, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Mosi_oa_Tunya&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Mosi oa Tunya (page does not exist)">Mosi oa Tunya</a>.</li>
<li>He made the news in 2016 when he married 23-year-old Bathabetsoe Nare who was 47 years younger than him by the time they got married. </li>
<li>Cain Mathema Holds a BSc Hon. Degree in Economics, Public Administration and Political Science – Nottingham Trent Polytechnic, UK.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Cain_Mathema">Cain Mathema Biography</a>

7 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Cain Mathema

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema has said Grade 7 pupils who failed the 2020 public examinations will proceed to Form One as the examination is not that important.
Mathema told Parliament that the Grade 7 examination only serves to help parents and teachers to identify areas they can help pupils when they go to secondary. He said:
<blockquote>Zimbabweans need to know that the Grade 7 examination is not the old standard 6 certification which was a terminal examination that could give candidates/students avenues to professions.
The Grade 7 examination in its current form, simply directs candidates, parents, and teachers to areas where candidates need assistance in competency development and enhancement in their secondary school academic lives.
It is important to note that Grade 7 candidate performance has been erratic over a number of years. The year-on-year performance changes because of a variety of reasons which any academic is able to put forward.</blockquote>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/24/minister-blames-sanctions-teacher-indiscipline-for-poor-grade-7-pass-rate/">Mathema blamed sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western countries and teacher indiscipline for the poor pass rate recorded in the 2020 Grade 7 exams.</a>
<h4>More: <a href="https://openparly.com/index.php/2021/02/25/dont-cry-grade-7-is-not-that-important-mathema/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Open Parly</a></h4>

Failed 2020 Grade 7 Pupils Can Proceed To Form One

Yesterday in Bulawayo, Cain Mathema, the Primary and Secondary Education Minister announced a new 14 member ZIMSEC board. The new board which is headed by Professor Eddie Mwenje according to Mathema is made up of lawyers, academics, and people from different professions.
Said Mathema as he was announcing the new board members:
<blockquote>The board which superintends over ZIMSEC is made up of academics, lawyers, educationists, accountants and renowned administrators in whom we have faith that standards will be maintained and made better through their guidance. I hereby announce the appointment of the following members to serve in the ZIMSEC board from 2021-2024
<ol>
<li>Professor Eddie Mwenje Chairperson</li>
<li>Mrs Milidzani Faith Masiye-Moyo Vice-Chairperson</li>
<li>Mr Fidelis Mhlanga</li>
<li>Professor David Jambwa Simbi</li>
<li>Mr John Dewah</li>
<li>Dr Lazarus Nembaware</li>
<li>Ms Suzzane Joscelyne</li>
<li>Mr Rogers Sisimayi</li>
<li>Mr Wadzanayi Chirongoma</li>
<li>Mr Richard Gundane</li>
<li>Mr Sindile Mhlanga</li>
<li>Dr. Eventhough Ndlovu</li>
<li>Mr Kind Kapfudza</li>
<li>Mr Mike Kangeremu</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
The Minister on Tuesday blamed the low 2020 Zimsec Grade <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/24/minister-blames-sanctions-teacher-indiscipline-for-poor-grade-7-pass-rate/">7 pass rate on a number of things including sanctions</a> imposed on Zimbabwe by Western powers.
While announcing the new ZIMSEC Board, Mathema also said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is ready to reopen schools, they are just waiting for the government to let the learners go back to school.
More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/education-ministry-ready-for-schools-opening/">ZBC News</a>

Govt Appoints New ZIMSEC Board

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Ambassador Cain Mathema has said the ministry is ready to reopen schools they are just waiting for the government’s directive to open their doors and let learners start learning, ZBC News reports.
Mathema said this as he was announcing the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) Board in Bulawayo when he said:
<blockquote>Ministry officials and myself have been on a whirlwind assessing the situation in schools. We are confident and ready to open schools, but the safety of learners is important. When it’s safe to do so, the President will advise.</blockquote>
During Tuesday’s post-cabinet briefing the Minister of information, Monica Mutsvangwa simply said the government <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/24/no-dates-for-reopening-schools-as-yet/">was preparing to reopen schools</a> but did not shed more information if schools will be opened in the near future.
Leaners were last in class on 18 December and they were supposed to have been back in school on 4 January before the government announced a 30 days national lockdown due to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/education-ministry-ready-for-schools-opening/">ZBC News </a>

We Are Ready To Reopen Schools - Mathema

Cain Mathema, the Primary and Secondary Education Minister said that sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western countries and teacher indiscipline are partly to blame for the poor pass rate recorded in the 2020 Grade 7 examinations.
Mathema said this in a ministerial statement which he issued in the National Assembly following the release of Grade 7 results early this month. He said:
<blockquote>… we also need support from the international community in education as well, but as long as there are sanctions, we will have a big problem. We already have a challenge because of the economic sanctions that were imposed on our country.
Mathema also blamed the coronavirus crisis for the high failure rate in the Grade 7 examinations which he said hindered the smooth flow of the education calendar.</blockquote>
On the issue of paying teachers’ salaries in foreign currency, Mathema said the decision is made by Treasury but is certainly not possible in the current economic climate. He said:
<blockquote>As for the teachers being paid in US dollars, well, that decision is made by the relevant authority, that is, the Ministry of Finance.
It is definitely not feasible at the moment. We cannot pay them as we just said the economy is not performing.</blockquote>
Early this month, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba blamed the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe and the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe for the poor pass rate.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/02/poor-pass-rate-govt-shifts-blame/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

Minister Blames Sanctions, Teacher Indiscipline For Poor Grade 7 Pass Rate

The government is investigating Grade 7 results to establish the challenges that could have caused some schools to register a zero percent pass rate.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa Senators on Thursday that the ministry of  Primary and Secondary Education was keen to get to the root of challenges faced by schools.
Minister Mutsvangwa said while there had been Covid-19-induced disturbances in schools, the relevant ministry was keen to know if there were other challenges and their impact. She said:
<blockquote>With regards to the Grade Seven results, I have been talking to Honourable Mathema who said there is a study being conducted to establish challenges that were faced by these schools which obtained zero percent (pass rate).
The Ministry of ICT is doing everything within their purview to make sure that the whole country has network and children are able to access e-learning and not just to sit at home.
That is why you are seeing money being channelled towards devolution so that everyone is involved in the development of this country. E-learning is very important to us as a country. A lot is being done by the Government to make sure that everyone is glued on e-learning.</blockquote>
Stakeholders including Dr. Takavafira Zhou, the president of the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) had previously warned the government that the adoption of the new curriculum was premature considering the digital gap between the rural and urban schools, the haves and have nots.
Teachers’ unions were also against the idea of reopening schools last year citing the government’s failure to put adequate mechanisms to protect both learners and teachers from COVID-19.
Teachers were also against the idea of reopening schools when the issue of poor salaries had not been addressed first.
When the issues were not sufficiently addressed, teachers went on go-slow mode and learners spent the good part of the year without teachers.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/grade-seven-results-under-scrutiny/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

Zero Pass Rates Tigger Probe Into Grade 7 Results

Primary and Secondary Education minister Cain Mathema has applauded education stakeholders for their part in ensuring that public exams went ahead in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mathema commended parents, teachers and government workers including the donor community and the media for supporting the students during preparation and writing of the public examinations. He told NewZimbabwe.com:
<blockquote>I am very grateful to everyone who played a part during our preparations and writing of exams last year. It was a difficult period where COVID-19 was ravaging communities but as government, we put our effort together with parents and teachers to make sure those exams were done. Let us continue to work together and make such efforts in future.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga has implored the government to allow pupils who failed their 2020 Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) Grade 7 exams to rewrite the crucial test.
Grade 7 exam results were released on Friday and 88 schools – mostly rural – in the country recorded zero per cent pass rates.
Mushonga said a lot of children from less privileged families did not receive proper learning because of a lot of factors, among them, the closure of schools for several months due to coronavirus.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/misihairabwi-mushonga-fumes-over-0-grade-7-pass-rates-urges-re-write/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mathema 'Grateful' Over 2020 ZIMSEC Exams Success

According to the Progressive Teachers Union(PTUZ), Over 10 000 teachers reportedly resigned from their jobs between September and December 2020, Newsday reports. This was revealed in a statement by PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou who in a statement said even those who did not resign in 2020 have mentally resigned from the job:
<blockquote>Another driving force has been failure by government to prioritise the health and safety of teachers. Several teachers have decided to protect themselves and their families by leaving teaching. With the quantum leap of COVID-19 cases among teachers and pupils, there is danger that the resignation rate might exceed 20 000 by January 2021.
Worse still 99,9% of all remaining teachers have mentally resigned from the profession although they physically remain at their stations. This is a dangerous scenario for any profession and calls for urgent intervention by government in order to stabilise the situation and guarantee quality public education and skills revolution as envisaged in Agenda 2030.
Teachers have fallen from grace to grass because of government’s failure to restore their salary’s purchasing power parity pegged at US$520-US$550. The challenge in the education system also calls upon all teachers across the teacher unions’ divide to bury their differences and fight together as brothers and sisters for status restoration.</blockquote>
When contacted for comment Minister of Primary and Secondary education Cain Mathema professed ignorance on the matter and said:
<blockquote>I am hearing that for the first time. I don’t know where he is getting his figures. I haven’t received such a report at the moment. I don’t belong to his organisation anyway, so I am in the dark. Maybe he knows better,</blockquote>
The government has been on a <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/10/19/govt-recruits-5000-teachers-plans-to-recruit-more/">massive teacher recruitment drive</a> this year due to the ongoing pandemic that dictates that social distancing regulations be observed to curb spreading the pandemic.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/12/over-10-000-teachers-resigned-in-2020/">Newsday</a>

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