Parly moves on teachers' welfare

In a move aimed at revitalizing Zimbabwe's education system, Parliament has emphasized the urgent need to improve teachers' welfare. This call was made during a workshop hosted by the Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) in Harare yesterday, where several legislators highlighted the critical role of teachers in achieving educational excellence.

Ophias Murambiwa, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education, stressed that investing in teachers is paramount. "Teachers are the heart of our education system. Investing in their continuous professional development, improving their welfare, and providing them with the necessary resources are fundamental to achieving educational excellence," Murambiwa stated. He noted that a motivated and empowered teaching workforce can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.

Murambiwa proposed the establishment of mechanisms for long-term financial support for education, including strategic public-private partnerships, dedicated education development funds, and transparent financial management systems that inspire public confidence. "We need to scale up efforts to expand classroom capacity, modernize learning environments, and integrate digital technology into every aspect of teaching and learning. A digital-ready education system is non-negotiable in today's world," he added.

The issue of teachers' salaries has been contentious, with educators demanding a minimum salary of US$1,260 amid a challenging economic environment characterized by the sharp depreciation of the local currency, the Zimbabwe Gold. However, the government has stated that it lacks the resources to meet these salary demands.

Murambiwa reassured attendees that the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee remains committed to ensuring efficient and equitable use of every dollar invested in education. "We are committed to rigorous monitoring and evaluation, holding stakeholders accountable, and advocating policies that respond to the evolving needs of our learners," he said. He highlighted that education financing should focus not just on allocation but also on impacting outcomes, ensuring investments lead to improved quality and access for all students.

In his remarks, Murambiwa commended Zimta for its role in advancing the education agenda and for equipping legislators with crucial insights. He called for unity among legislators, educators, parents, and the private sector to drive sustainable change in the education sector. "The resources we channel into this vital sector are not mere expenditures but transformative investments that yield boundless returns in developing human potential, fostering social unity, and driving sustained economic prosperity," he affirmed.

Minehle Gumede, chairperson of the Higher and Tertiary Education Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, echoed Murambiwa's sentiments, stating that increased funding has had a significant impact on the education landscape, particularly in establishing vital innovation hubs within higher learning institutions. "The future of our nation hinges on the quality of education we provide today. With continued investment, we can ensure our learning institutions produce not just graduates, but innovators and leaders of tomorrow," she remarked.

Sifiso Ndlovu, Zimta's chief executive officer, urged lawmakers to create national commissions that include teacher unions and government representatives to address critical education issues and monitor the implementation of recommendations. He also called for an amendment to the Public Service Act to provide for Collective Bargaining, advocating for the urgent introduction of a Bill in Parliament for the establishment of the Teaching Service Commission.

"Education is a human right and a public good; we call on authorities to protect education from corporate greed and influences," the union stated, reinforcing the urgent need for systemic changes to enhance the welfare of teachers and the overall quality of education in Zimbabwe.