Zimpapers Logo

Nqobile Bhebhe, Online Reporter

THE Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Cde Edgar Moyo, says disciplinary measures are on-going on school heads who are turning away students demanding payment of school fees exclusively in US dollars.

He said the practice is an act of misconduct.
Responding to questions in the Senate on Thursday on what measures are taken on school heads who are flouting Government directives on school fees, Moyo said the issue of payment of fees is guided by the Government that all currencies that are legal tender in the country must be used.

He said all school heads are aware of the policy.
“If they are transgressing and departing from what is policy, then they are committing an act of misconduct, which is chargeable in terms of our disciplinary procedures,” he said.

“So, if that is happening and you could give us the name of the school and the head, our officers normally will be sent to the school to investigate, and disciplinary procedures will be instituted against the offending school heads.”

Deputy Minister Moyo added that last week, the ministry resent a circular that speaks to the payment modes that parents should follow.

“If they have US dollars that is fine, it is acceptable. If they have Zimbabwe dollars, that is fine and it is acceptable. If they have swipe or Ecocash, whatever mode is acceptable.

“We would very much be happy to know the schools that are offending. Already, we have received some from Hon. Members here, I think two days back, I had some senators in my office who brought that to our attention and we sent officers to investigate.

“They have found those offending heads and disciplinary measures are being instituted right now.”
However, he did not reveal the number of school heads facing disciplinary actions and which schools are engaging in such practice.