School rejects Sangoma's donations

A primary school in Mvurwi is facing public backlash after turning down an offer from a self-proclaimed sangoma to cover fees and stationery for more than 50 underprivileged learners.

Mudavanhu Primary School reportedly rejected the donation due to a conflict with the school's apostolic church doctrine. A school official explained: "We cannot accept it because it is against our doctrine."

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) condemned the decision, calling it a "callous and insensitive" betrayal of the current generation of learners. Artuz secretary-general Obert Masaraure criticised the authorities for allowing religious beliefs to interfere with children's access to education, especially in a context of severe underfunding.

"Donations know no source. We should welcome them if they enable children to learn," Masaraure said. "We should not betray the current generation because of the source of donations, especially using religious stereotypes to block children from accessing their basic rights, including education."

The incident has reignited debate over the balance between religious doctrine and the urgent need to support underprivileged learners, with many members of the public calling for schools to prioritise children's welfare over institutional beliefs.