Zengeza 2 High School Bars Exam Registration Over Unpaid Fees
Zengeza 2 High School in Chitungwiza is allegedly preventing students from registering for the final ZIMSEC exams unless they settle their outstanding fees. This action contradicts the guidelines established by the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) and has caused considerable unease and worry among the student body.
During discussions with concerned parents at the school, Mr. Duma, the Deputy Headmaster, instructed parents to reduce the number of subjects their children were planning to register for. This reduction in subjects was mandated to allocate funds towards clearing the fee arrears. Consequently, students were compelled to drop subjects they had intended to register for, adding to their academic stress and uncertainty.
“I was unable to register my child, who is in Form Four at Zengeza 2 High School, because of outstanding fees. I had managed to raise the registration fee only, and after pleading with the deputy head for the second time, they agreed to allow me to pay the registration fee. However, they requested that I reduce the number of subjects my child registers for, from seven to six, and use the remaining money to pay part of the tuition fees. I am a widow and have no one else to assist me financially. I believe that ZIMSEC and the government should engage with school heads to find a solution that allows children to register without such financial constraints,” said an anonymous parent.
During an interview with Bustop TV, Nicholette Moyo, ZIMSEC’s Public Relations Manager, rejected the measures being implemented by the school.
“ZIMSEC’s position is that no child should be hindered from sitting for an examination. School administrators are encouraged to come to amicable agreements with parents so as to not disadvantage any child.
“There is no order issued by the school. Parents and guardians are allowed to report all forms of malpracties to ZIMSEC and MoPSE,” she said.
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The school has also imposed a final registration deadline for the November exams on 20 March 2024, which is six days earlier than the official date announced by ZIMSEC, set for 26 March 2024. This premature cutoff has intensified the stress on students and their families, particularly those grappling with financial constraints.
The scenario unfolding at Zengeza 2 High School sheds light on the widespread difficulties encountered by numerous students across Zimbabwe. The escalating cost of education poses a significant burden on families already facing economic challenges. This situation prompts reflection on the government’s responsibility in supporting students and ensuring equitable access to education, irrespective of financial obstacles.
Parents of students are hopeful that the school will reconsider its stance and permit all students, regardless of their financial circumstances, to register for their exams and pursue their academic aspirations.
