Govt warns schools against sending learners home over fees

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued a stern warning to schools against turning away pupils over unpaid fees, stressing that no child should be denied access to education because of financial hardship.

Speaking to 263Chat, Harare Metropolitan Province Deputy Director for Primary and Secondary Education, Clifford Matara, said schools must engage directly with parents or guardians rather than punishing learners.

"No child should be sent home for failure to pay levies or fees. Schools must deal with the parents, not the learners. Leave the learners alone," Matara said.

He emphasized that children should not suffer consequences for circumstances beyond their control, adding that the Ministry would take firm action against institutions that disregard the directive.

"If we hear that a particular school is sending learners back home for non-payment, we go to the school, address the situation, and penalise the authorities involved," he added.

Matara assured parents that the Ministry has the resources and personnel to monitor compliance and respond swiftly to reports of violations. He urged members of the public to report cases directly to provincial education offices.

The intervention comes amid rising complaints from parents about schools allegedly sending pupils home or forcing them to sit outside during lessons for failing to pay fees.

The Ministry has condemned such practices as unlawful and warned that they will not be tolerated.