MPs push for mandatory constitutional lessons

Members of Parliament (MPs) are urging the government to introduce constitutional studies as a compulsory subject in schools, arguing that current coverage is too limited to ensure widespread civic awareness.

The proposal was discussed in Parliament amid growing debate over constitutional reform, including the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No 3) Bill (CAB3), which seeks to extend presidential term limits, alter election processes and restructure some independent commissions.

MPs argued that stronger civic education is needed to help young people understand the Constitution as the country's supreme law and to build awareness of rights, responsibilities and governance structures.

The issue was raised during a parliamentary session with Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo, who confirmed that constitutional education is currently taught as part of Heritage Studies and the History curriculum, rather than as a standalone compulsory subject.

He added that schools also participate in moot court competitions to enhance practical understanding of constitutional issues.

However, MPs said this approach is insufficient and called for a more structured and universal curriculum rollout.

The discussion intensified after opposition MP Darlington Chigumbu questioned whether students should be allowed to express views on CAB3. The minister initially suggested that learners would be taught the contents after its passage, without necessarily debating it.

Opposition MP Lynnette Karenyi-Kore challenged this view, pointing out that many Form 5 students are 18 years old and eligible to vote. The minister later acknowledged that such students do have the right to express their views.

Another MP, Shakespeare Hamauswa, raised concerns about whether teachers are being trained adequately to ensure consistent delivery of constitutional education, though the minister did not respond to that question.

The debate comes at a time of heightened national attention on constitutional matters, with MPs arguing that civic education is essential for informed participation in democratic processes and understanding of proposed legal changes.