Debate reignites over corporal punishment in Zimbabwean schools

The issue of corporal punishment in schools has once again sparked heated debate among Zimbabwean lawmakers, traditional leaders, educators, and parents, following a recent incident at SOS Hermann Gmeiner Primary School where a Grade 3 pupil was beaten, injuring his hand.

A number of Parliament members and traditional chiefs have called for a return of the cane in classrooms, arguing that discipline shapes the nation's future. Emphasising their stance, Emakhandeni-Luveve MP Collins Bajila said children need discipline but stressed the importance of correction without causing injury. "It's time for a new law that ensures correction without violence," he noted. Similarly, Sithabisiwe Moyo, legislator for Beitbridge East, called the removal of corporal punishment a mistake, adding she intends to personally move a motion for its reconsideration in Parliament.

Mazowe MP Tsungai Makumbe highlighted the potential for careful application: "If handled carefully, corporal punishment could play a corrective role again. True discipline corrects without leaving scars." Gwanda-Tshitaudze MP Moyo Fisani suggested strict guidelines, recommending light strokes administered in the presence of another educator and properly documented.

Public sentiment appears to largely favour a return to corporal punishment. In a recent B-Metro poll, 90 percent of respondents supported the measure, while a vox-pop of Bulawayo residents revealed that eight out of ten backed its reintroduction. Malanda from Emakhandeni argued, "The Gen Z is too disrespectful. Bring back the cane."

However, not all voices agree. Chief Witness Chikwaka opposed corporal punishment while endorsing discipline, warning that it can be too harsh. Education Minister Dr Torerayi Moyo emphasised that corporal punishment is illegal and outdated, arguing that changing behaviour requires more than fear. Nkulumane MP Desire Moyo echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for mentorship and positive discipline, particularly in addressing issues such as drug abuse.

Parents have also weighed in. Samukeliso Maseko from Bulawayo said: "As parents we fail or are afraid to discipline our children and expect teachers to do it. Charity starts at home, let corporal punishment come back." Memory Linyani of Bubi stressed that discipline begins at home, noting that teachers cannot be expected to shoulder the entire burden.

As the debate rages on, Zimbabwe faces a national conversation about the balance between discipline and child protection, and whether corporal punishment is a necessary tool or a practice that risks fostering rebellion and resentment among the next generation.