Thekwane High school parents protest fee hike and uniform policy

Parents at Thekwane High School in Plumtree have raised concerns over a sharp increase in Lower Six fees, which have risen from around US$500 to US$900. The fee hike, coupled with a requirement to purchase uniforms from the school, has sparked outrage among guardians who feel they are being financially burdened without proper justification.

An invoice dated January 22, 2025, shows that tuition is set at US$30, while boarding costs US$307. Other levies include a US$94 School Development Committee (SDC) fee, a US$60 Science Levy, and a US$75 Development Levy. Uniform costs alone account for US$244, while parents are also expected to pay for hymn books and Bibles—items some claim their children never receive.

Frustrated parents say the school's decision-making process is opaque and that their concerns are disregarded. "The worry we have is that standards are declining, and arrogance is taking over," one parent said. "Meetings are more like ambushes where you can't say anything. Decisions, including fees, are made beforehand, and we are given no choice."

Another parent criticized the school's communication, saying they were often given last-minute demands. "We were told to provide bond paper with no prior notice," the parent said. "They demand things at the last minute, like forms that needed photos and were sent in the evening. It's exhausting."

The school's uniform policy has also been met with resistance, with parents questioning why they are being forced to buy school attire exclusively from the institution. "Why are we forced to buy uniforms worth US$244? Shirts and blouses don't cost that much," a parent said. Others accused the school of prioritizing profits over education.

"There seems to be a money-making scheme at Thekwane," one parent alleged. "The SDC controls the supply of items like vegetables, and now uniforms must be bought from the school. It's clear someone is benefiting from this system."

Thekwane High School principal, Bekithemba Phiri, defended the institution, denying claims that parents were compelled to purchase uniforms from the school. "While we sell uniforms, parents have never been forced to purchase them from us," he said.

On the issue of fees, Phiri insisted that as a mission school, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education approves its fees, which stand at US$560. "The US$900 figure being circulated is inaccurate," he said.

Phiri also dismissed allegations of poor communication and claims that the school was biased against certain groups. "We have effective communication systems," he said. "Claims of tribalism due to Shona-speaking staff are unfounded and divisive. The Ministry of Education deploys teachers, and as a church, we uphold inclusivity."

Despite these assurances, parents insist that the school must provide more clarity on why the fees have nearly doubled and improve its engagement with stakeholders. "We need clarity on why the fees have nearly doubled overnight. Parents are not cash cows," one parent said.

The concerns highlight ongoing tensions between school administrators and parents, with many calling for greater transparency in decision-making and a review of financial policies affecting students.