Pupils linked to school robberies

THE spate of robberies that have been occurring at Sobukhazi High School in Bulawayo over the years have been linked to pupils, a situation that is worrisome as pupils are supposed to be the custodians of school property.

This came to light during a 45-year anniversary and prize-giving day at the school on Friday.

The headmistress of the school, Mrs Thatho Sikhosana, said she was not amused by the disturbance.

"We have had many robberies at this school and some of these robberies our own students are responsible for them and it is not a good thing. Our students lack discipline from the home set up so it is at times difficult to instill it here. We encourage parents to start the process of instilling discipline at home."

She said many pupils were coming from homes where parents were living outside the country and they were left under the care of relatives where control is lacking in some cases.

In May this year armed robbers pounced on the school security guard and demanded keys to the bursars' office as they wanted to steal some money which they assumed had been paid by students that had just opened schools.

Prominent Bulawayo businessman Mr Clemence Kunzekweguta who was the guest of honour at the function weighed in, saying students must listen to wise counsel from elders if they are to succeed.

"If you students do not listen you miss opportunities that are presented to you. Listening is an art that requires attention over talent, spirit and ego and you have to make a deliberate and conscious decision to listen to your seniors," he said.

"You spend a lot of time on whatsapp and other media where you view a lot of disturbing things and you start to feel more important than parents but beware, this technology fades but the wisdom of a parent is constant."

He advised the students to stay away from a life of crime if they are to be successful.