Government rescinds order compelling schools to fundraise for upcoming Independence celebrations
By Catherine Murombedzi
CORRESPONDENT
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education on Wednesday rescinded an earlier directive compelling schools to fundraise for this year’s national Independence Day celebrations, saying the order was made without authorisation.
This follows a memo issued on March 24 by Gweru district schools inspector identified as Mahlokozera T. directing all schools in the district to fundraise for a 463-member delegation selected to attend the main celebrations in Gokwe-Nembudziya, Midlands Province, on April 18, 2025.
The money, according to Mahlokozera T was for the delegation’s transport, food and other incidental costs.
In a statement on Wednesday, the ministry advised the affected schools to disregard the directive.
“The directive allegedly issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) requesting these contributions is deemed unauthorised and inconsistent with ministry policies,” the statement read in part.
The ministry said the government does not condone such exploitative practices.
“School heads, teachers, and relevant stakeholders are directed to disregard the controversial demand,” the statement added.
“The letter issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) requesting such contributions
is unauthorised, unwarranted, and without basis in Ministry policy. The Ministry condemns any
attempt to impose financial burdens on learners or institutions for national events.
“The Ministry has initiated an immediate inquiry into the matter. The official responsible for the
directive will be required to provide a full explanation for their actions, which contravene
established protocols. Disciplinary measures will be taken as appropriate,” read the statement.
‘The ministry has urged anyone pressured to contribute to this cause to report the matter to the appropriate authorities without delay.”
Independence Day remains a moment of national unity, and the ministry urges all citizens to participate
freely in celebrations without undue financial obligations.
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