Outcry over Grade 7 examination fees

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) and a cross section of the population have expressed concern at the government proposed $3 Grade 7 examination fees saying the move was not only unconstitutional, but against the majority poor.

The comments came in the wake of Primary and Secondary Education deputy minister Paul Mavima's remarks in Parliament on Wednesday that government was mulling introducing Grade 7 exam fees to maintain the quality of education.

"The commission takes this opportunity to remind the government and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education that the proposed fee introduction, if true, contravenes provisions of international human rights instruments that Zimbabwe is party to," ZHRC said.

Former Mbizo MP Settlement Chikwinya said the move would further commercialize education.