The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Association of University Teachers (AUT) has warned faculty deans against interfering with the ongoing strike, following reports of lecturer intimidation and coercion.
AUT President Philemon Chamburuka wrote to deans and department chairpersons, urging them to stop threatening and coercing lecturers, as well as misusing attendance registers. Wrote Chamburuka:
<blockquote>
The AUT Executive has received numerous complaints of some Deans and Chairpersons who, directly or indirectly, have interfered with or obstructed the aforementioned lawful and constitutional strike.
This has included threats of non-renewal of contracts, undue pressure to provide services including teaching, marking and processing of examinations or non-attendance of examination board meetings or face unspecified consequences. These threats have been accompanied by improper use of registers of attendance.
The AUT takes serious issue with the above conduct and hereby brings notice for the immediate cessation of any and all such conduct, including threats, that interfere with or obstruct the strike.
</blockquote>
The AUT also warned that it would pursue all available legal remedies, including both civil and criminal action, against the university and any individuals found to be violating the rights of the union and its members. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
For the foregoing, you as a public officer and as a representative/agent of the employer and in your personal capacity have an obligation to respect the law, including the ongoing collective job action by UZ employees.
Consequently, there must be no interference whatsoever, directly or indirectly, with the strike.
In the AUT case, supra, the University of Zimbabwe committed itself to fully respect the strike and picketing. This includes yourself.
</blockquote>
UZ lecturers declared a strike in April and have been picketing at the main campus in Mt Pleasant, citing poor salaries and working conditions.
They claim to be earning just US$250 per month and are demanding a return to pre-2018 salary levels, when a junior lecturer reportedly earned US$2,250.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/respect-the-law-stop-interfering-striking-uz-lecturers-tell-deans-of-faculties/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Pindula News

University of Zimbabwe lecturers are on strike for better pay and working conditions. They have complained about faculty deans intimidating and pressuring them to work. The lecturers earn very low wages, with some making only $250 per month. The union has warned the deans to stop interfering with the strike. They may take legal action if the harassment continues. The lecturers want their wages to go back to what they were before 2018, when a junior lecturer could earn $2,250. The strike started in April and is happening at the main campus in Mt Pleasant.

Faculty Deans Warned Against Interfering In UZ Lecturers’ Strike

An orphan from Masvingo who scored 13 points in the 2024 ZIMSEC A-Level Science subjects is appealing for sponsorship to pursue a degree in Physiotherapy, Radiography, or Laboratory Technology at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST).
The girl, Graca Mushonga, lost her mother when she was in Form 2. She now lives with a relative, along with her younger sister, who is in Grade 4. The relative is currently covering the school fees for Graca’s sister.
Graca was unable to apply for a Presidential Scholarship because she does not have a passport. She said:
<blockquote>
My dream is to study physiotherapy, radiography or lab technology at NUST, Chinhoyi University, or any university outside the country. I applied for an apprenticeship with Air Zimbabwe and for nurses’ training at Gutu School of Nursing but I didn’t get any responses.
</blockquote>
Well-wishers can contact Graca on 0786 936 371, her aunt on 0772 524 694 or Masvingo Mirror helpline on 0716 895 703/ 0775 691 380.
More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/whizkid-appeals-for-help/">The Mirror</a>

Graca Mushonga, a girl from Masvingo, got 13 points in her science A-Level exams. She wants to study Physiotherapy but needs help with sponsorship. She lost her mom in Form 2 and now lives with a relative and younger sister. She couldn't get a scholarship because she doesn't have a passport. Graca wants to study at NUST, Chinhoyi University, or abroad. She applied for jobs and training but didn't get any response. Anyone who wants to help can contact Graca or her aunt. For more information, visit The Mirror.

Orphaned Girl With 13 A-Level Points Appeals For Help

The government plans to continue the school feeding programme next term, but there’s a need to secure more grain to distribute to schools.
Parents will be asked to contribute cash and relish to help keep the programme running smoothly.
The initiative was introduced to tackle hunger in schools and ensure that all students have a supportive environment to learn and thrive.
Taungana Ndoro, the Director of Communications and Advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, said:
<blockquote>
We need some new procurement, but currently we have some grain in schools that need to be replenished to secure new stocks.
We are proud of our parents who are coming forward with cash and relish. These are our major stakeholders in the programme.
The school feeding programme is going a long way in alleviating hunger in schools.
</blockquote>
Reports indicate that in September 2024, the Government procured 27,000 tonnes of mealie meal, which were distributed to over 4,000 schools across both urban and rural areas.
Munyaradzi Majoni, Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads, has called on the Government to extend the initiative to all public schools. Said Majoni:
<blockquote>
We appeal to the Government that the programme should be introduced to all public schools.
In Group A schools, we can see that other children are vulnerable. They need food as well.
</blockquote>
Schools taking part in the programme have seen more students enrolling and fewer absences. For example, Tjingababili Primary School in Mangwe District experienced a rise in attendance and improved pass rates thanks to the feeding scheme.
By providing meals, children are better nourished, which helps them concentrate and take part more actively in class.
Parents and local communities play an important role, helping with resources like firewood and assisting with meal preparation.
Some schools have also started projects like nutrition gardens and small livestock farming to help support the feeding programme.
More: <a href="https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/school-feeding-scheme-to-continue-next-term/">HeraldOnline</a>

The government will continue providing food to schools next term, but more grain is needed. Parents will be asked to help by giving money and food. The feeding programme helps hungry students learn better in a supportive environment. Schools with the programme have more students attending and doing well. Some schools are also starting projects like gardens to support the feeding programme. Everyone, including parents and communities, plays a part in making sure students have enough food to eat at school.

School Feeding Scheme To Continue - Govt.

A strike by university lecturers may soon come to an end following assurances from Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba that the Government is addressing their welfare concerns.
Speaking last week, Charamba acknowledged that the lecturers’ grievances were “genuine”. In an update on Monday, he said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had “long approved” a proposal to resolve the crisis at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), but blamed unnamed officials for delaying its implementation.
Posting on social media platform X under his handle Jamwanda, Charamba said:
<blockquote>
YOU HAVE BEEN HEARD!!! Government is addressing the welfare of University Lecturers. Just as well they raised the matter publicly. It turns out the Chancellor, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, had long approved recommendations which should have put this matter well behind us. Inertia gathered somewhere and OPC will cause movement. Thank you Comrades for acting responsibly!
</blockquote>
This comes after the Association of University Teachers (AUT) has threatened to expand industrial action to all 14 state universities within the next 10 days unless the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) and the government address their concerns over inadequate wages.
The AUT is demanding that the government and UZ restore lecturers’ salaries to their levels before October 2018, when a junior lecturer earned US$2,250, before the pay was drastically reduced to US$230.
AUT spokesperson, Professor Obvious Vengeyi, told New Zimbabwe that the UZ administration has been refusing to engage with lecturers.
The week before last, Professor Vengeyi and two of his colleagues were arrested at the University of Zimbabwe for protesting against poor wages. They were released after spending a night in police custody and each paying a fine of US$15.
The lecturers subsequently obtained a High Court order preventing the police from interfering with their peaceful protest. As a result, they decided to suspend all lectures on Thursday and Friday last week.

University lecturers in Zimbabwe have been striking because they are not happy with their pay. The President has finally approved a proposal to fix this issue, but it has been delayed. The lecturers are demanding their salaries be restored to what they were before a big cut in 2018. If their demands are not met, they may expand their strike to other universities. Some lecturers were even arrested for protesting. The government and the University of Zimbabwe need to listen to the lecturers' concerns and resolve the issue soon.

Mnangagwa Approved Welfare Proposal To Resolve University Lecturers' Grievances, Says Charamba

Parents of children at Musenyereki Primary School in Zaka have reportedly threatened the school head, a Madam Mureyi, with witchcraft over a fee increase and alleged maladministration.
In a leaked audio recording, a parent named Baba Maka from Banduki Village can be heard threatening to report Madam Mureyi, take legal action, or resort to witchcraft if their efforts to resolve the matter fail. Baba Maka is heard angrily ranting in the recording:
<blockquote>
Today, we couldn’t drink marula brew or work in our fields because of you. Where do these fees come from? Do you teach foreign content or buy pens overseas? What kind of Musenyereki is this? Don’t push us to do what we shouldn’t.
This year, we’ll face you in court. If we fail, we’ll use witchcraft, you’ll be a head in heaven. We won’t be troubled by you at a school we built. We’re coming, and you’ll answer to our goblins at night or leave.
</blockquote>
When contacted for comment by <a href="https://tellzim.com/parents-threaten-school-head-with-witchcraft-over-fees-hike/">TellZim News</a>, Madam Mureyi neither confirmed nor denied the threats, saying she was not authorised to speak to the media before abruptly hanging up.
Samson Chidzurira, the Zaka District Schools Inspector, told TellZim News that he was aware of issues at the school but did not have all the details. Said Chidzurira:
<blockquote>
I’ve heard there are problems, but I’m yet to receive a complete report.
</blockquote>
Sources familiar with the incident revealed that the audio, recorded in February, is still circulating, and the matter remains unresolved.
One source pointed out that while the parents’ threats were inappropriate, Madam Mureyi faces challenges with diplomacy in a rural setting. Said the source:
<blockquote>
She’s failed the community. When parents engage her, she cites statutes they don’t understand. She needs to balance legal requirements with community understanding.
</blockquote>
Another source disclosed that tensions escalated after Madam Mureyi confined students from ECD to Grade Seven, who had not paid their fees, to a single room for the entire day. She reportedly did this out of fear of government repercussions for sending the children home.
The source also mentioned that Mureyi had agreed with parents to raise the fees from $30 to $40, with the additional $10 intended to cover a computer levy, security guard, and the school feeding programme. 
However, she allegedly failed to properly account for the computer levy. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Parents were furious that she kept unpaid learners in one class all day instead of sending them home. She also allegedly failed to account for the computer levy at the AGM, angering parents. The environment is hostile, but she refuses to transfer.
</blockquote>

Parents at Musenyereki Primary School in Zaka got mad at the headmistress because they didn't like a fee increase. One parent even threatened to use witchcraft against her if she didn't change things. The headmistress didn't say much about it when asked. The school inspector knows about the problem but doesn't have all the details. Some people think the headmistress isn't good at dealing with the community. Things got worse when she kept some students in one room all day for not paying fees. There was also a problem with the extra money for computers not being clearly explained to parents.

Parents Threaten School Head With Witchcraft Over Fee Increase

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) blocked teachers from various southern African unions from marching on Tuesday to celebrate their regional sports event, which was recently held in Bulawayo.
The Association of Non-Aligned Teachers’ Unions of Southern Africa (ANTUSA) hosted its annual sporting activities from 17 to 20 April.
According to Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) spokesperson Peter Machenjera, the police refused to grant them permission to march in the Hillside area. He said:
<blockquote>
We wrote to the police seeking permission to have an official march to mark our presence in Bulawayo from Fazak shopping centre to Hillside Teachers College, a stretch of five hundred to seven hundred metres.
But they denied us that chance to march and market ourselves just to mark our presence in Hillside.
</blockquote>
Machenjera also revealed that the Public Service Commission (PSC) had ignored PTUZ’s request for transport assistance. He said:
<blockquote>
As PTUZ we wrote to government seeking assistance with transport. Remember we have got the Public Service Commission (PSC) buses but we received no response from government.
We even wrote to government asking for financial assistance to host the games and there was no response as well.
</blockquote>
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerai Moyo, officially opened the event in Bulawayo on Saturday.
In his speech, Moyo commended PTUZ for organising the event, saying the games help foster mutual understanding among nations. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
ANTUSA games foster camaraderie among nations, promoting understanding and respect through the universal language of sport.
As we cheer for our teams and celebrate their achievements, let us embrace the values of collaboration and mutual support that these games embody.
</blockquote>
ANTUSA is a regional organisation that unites teachers’ unions from across Southern Africa. It was established in 2007 during the BETUZ Annual Conference held in Kabwe, Zambia.
The association is committed to promoting regional cooperation, professional development, and improved working conditions for teachers throughout the SADC region.
Member unions represent countries including Botswana, Zambia, Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Mauritius.
ANTUSA also organises annual sports and cultural exchange programmes to encourage camaraderie and collaboration among educators.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200041136/bulawayo-police-block-sadc-teachers-celebrations">Southern Eye</a>

The police in Zimbabwe stopped teachers from marching to celebrate their sports event. The teachers wanted to mark their presence in Bulawayo but were denied permission to march. They also asked for help with transportation and funding, but received no response from the government. The Minister of Education praised the event for promoting understanding and respect through sports. The Association of Non-Aligned Teachers’ Unions of Southern Africa (ANTUSA) brings together teachers from different countries in Southern Africa to improve working conditions and promote collaboration. They also organize sports and cultural programs to encourage friendship among educators.

ZRP Shuts Down March Planned By SADC Teachers In Bulawayo

By Prof Jonathan Moyo
 The poor remuneration and deplorable conditions of service for academic staff at Zimbabwe’s state universities, which has led to the highly publicised indefinite strike by the teaching staff at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) smacks of a shocking administrative failure and abuse of duty by the authorities at the state universities; with the embarrassing complicity of the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development.
At the core of their long unresolved multifaceted grievances, the striking UZ academic staff are demanding the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salary levels, when the basic salary of a junior lecturer was circa US$2,250 to $2,500 per month.
This fair demand arises from the fact that in October 2018, the university authorities inexplicably slashed the US$2,250 to $2,500 per month; to what is today a paltry average of US$230 to $300 per month. The reduction has been by a cruel 87 percent.
The current reduced salary has a local currency component, averaging ZWG 6,000 to 8,000, and amounting to less than US$200.
No one needs any advice from a rocket scientist to understand that this deplorable situation has left the academic staff unable to make ends meet, as they cannot afford basic necessities like housing, food, transport, healthcare, school fees and the like; in an economy whose generally harsh environment has been worsened by inflation and currency devaluation.
Through their union representative, the Association of University Teachers (AUT), the academic staff at UZ have given the public a compelling case about their slave wages and deplorable conditions, and the staff describe their pitiful financial situation as rendering them “incapacitated” to perform their duties effectively and efficiently.
Although there are many disturbing facets that the academic staff have shared about their salary dire straits, notably, two of their grievances expose the rot at UZ in particularly telling and worrying ways.
First, the AUT says while the UZ academic staff have been wallowing in enforced poverty due to the unilateral slashing of their salaries in 2018, in the interim the UZ management has awarded itself lavish packages that have included luxury cars and hefty US dollar perks, while prioritising the pursuit of non-essential projects at the expense of the welfare and working conditions of the academic staff.
Second, the AUT says that UZ authorities have been refusing to engage the association, and claims that, since 2018, the association has written over 27 letters to UZ management asking for salary reviews, and has received only one negative response, and has been granted only two inconclusive meetings in seven years. The AUT characterises the managerial approach and attitude of the UZ as always “prescriptive’ and never “consultative” or “explorative” to find solutions.
And this begs the question: where has the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development been in this fiasco over seven years?
All told, the 2018 reduction of the salaries of academic staff by a staggering 87 percent can only be described as unfair, unjust and indefensible.
This is the case not only of the striking academic staff at UZ but also of academic staff at all state universities.
The devastating impact on the livelihoods of the academic staff has hit the bottom of the barrel; as they are no longer able to fend for themselves and their families or, as per their vocation, no longer able to adequately and meaningfully teach their students; let alone to do any research to produce the intellectual property that is necessary for the country’s industrialisation and modernisation.
While it was terribly bad for the university universities — with the complicity of the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development — to have superintended over this debacle in the first place, it is worse that they have done nothing to reverse and redress the situation over a very long seven years.
It’s a shameful debacle.
The university authorities and the ministry cannot escape the indictment that their inability to redress the situation is a shocking administrative failure and abuse of duty, which has resulted in an intolerable violation of the human dignity of the academic staff at state universities.
Not only is this a national embarrassment, but it is also a threat to the country’s economic interests with national security implications.
One thing should be clear: the poor remuneration of academic staff at state universities, which is emblematic of an insidious marginalisation of higher education and its treatment as some largely irrelevant ivory tower occupation — that can be ignored in the prioritisation of national resource allocation — needs to stop, in the national interest.
It would be impossible for Zimbabwe to defeat the enemies of the people, namely; hunger, poverty, disease, ignorance and corruption without the kid of intellectual property that can only come from higher education; particularly but not only through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The impression often given that the solutions to hunger, poverty, disease, ignorance and corruption will come from civil servants and politicians is misguided, misplaced and wrong.
In the final analysis, countries develop and compete on the basis and strength of their intellectual capacity and intellectual property.
The most closely guarded national secrets in geopolitics is intellectual property that makes the world go round; it’s not secrets about who said what, who sleeps with who or who has stolen what. It’s intellectual property. The trade beef between the US and China is not about tariffs, it is over the ownership of intellectual property.
It is in this connection that the most important institutions – and indeed persons – in society are the producers of intellectual property, and the most common and most reliable of these institutions are universities.
A society that does not adequately remunerate or reward its academic staff at its institutions of higher education, and which treats its universities merely as teaching and learning institutions, and not as producers of cutting-edge intellectual property that’s patentable and commercially useable, is its own worst enemy.
The poor remuneration, marginalisation and mistreatment of academic staff at state universities in the country is a national crisis. It needs to be fixed as a matter of urgency!

The article talks about how academic staff at state universities in Zimbabwe are paid very little money. The staff at the University of Zimbabwe went on strike because they used to earn more money before, but their salaries were cut by 87%. This has caused a lot of problems for them and their families. The staff have been asking for a salary increase, but the university management has not been listening to them. This is not fair and has been going on for seven years. The author says this is a big problem that needs to be fixed quickly for the good of the country.

Poor Remuneration of Academic Staff At State Universities A National Crisis - Jonathan Moyo

The Association of University Teachers (AUT) has threatened to expand industrial action to all 14 state universities within the next 10 days unless the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) and the government address their concerns over inadequate wages.
The AUT is demanding that the government and UZ restore lecturers’ salaries to their levels before October 2018, when a junior lecturer earned US$2,250, before the pay was drastically reduced to US$230.
Speaking outside the UZ campus on Thursday, 24 April, AUT’s legal advisor and senior labour law lecturer at UZ, Munyaradzi Gwisai, issued a ten-day ultimatum to Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Fredrick Shava and the Treasury. He said:
<blockquote>
Dr Shava, the choice is yours. You and Professor Mthuli Ncube and Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga, the one who we hear is looting public funds, you must sit down and give UZ lecturers and staff what is their due.
If you do not, take it from us, this is going to be a struggle that is going to go to the entire fourteen state universities and this is going to happen in the next ten days.
</blockquote>
Gwisai said the university must halt all of its services and urged all lecturers to withdraw their labour entirely, including marking examinations, until the institution reviews their salaries.
AUT spokesperson, Professor Obvious Vengeyi, told New Zimbabwe that the UZ administration has been refusing to engage with lecturers. He said:
<blockquote>
We must ensure that if you get a call from a dean, a departmental chairperson, who says to you, come to the lecture room, you just ignore it.
They are buying themselves top-of-the-range latest vehicles. They are arrogant. They don’t talk to us. They are not engaging us.
We wrote to them more than forty letters since 2018, and they only replied to two. They squander resources on their own, leaving lecturers suffering.
We need dignity for the profession. How can you pay a professor US$230?
</blockquote>
Last week, Professor Vengeyi and two of his colleagues were arrested at UZ for protesting against poor wages. They were released after spending a night in police custody and paying US$15 fines.
The lecturers subsequently obtained a High Court order preventing the police from interfering with their peaceful protest. As a result, they decided to suspend all lectures on Thursday and Friday.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/we-are-shutting-down-all-state-universities-in-zimbabwe-lecturers-threaten-more-industrial-action-over-poor-salaries-give-govt-10-day-ultimatum/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

University lecturers in Zimbabwe are angry because their pay was cut from US$2,250 to US$230 in 2018. They want the government to raise their salaries back up. The lecturers are threatening to go on strike unless their demands are met within 10 days. They are demanding dignity for their profession and fair pay. The government has been ignoring their letters and not listening to their concerns. Some lecturers were even arrested for protesting. The lecturers have now obtained a court order to protect their right to protest peacefully.

University Lecturers Give Govt. 10 Days To Review Salaries

Lecturers at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) have announced a two-day industrial action in pursuit of improved remuneration, following an earlier disruption by the police.
The fresh strike comes one week after police disbanded a previous picket and arrested three leaders of the lecturers’ union.
The academic staff have since secured a High Court order prohibiting police from interfering with their peaceful protest. As a result, they intend to suspend all lectures on Thursday and Friday.
In an official notification addressed to the police on Wednesday, Dr. Onesimo Kadare, Vice President of the Association of University Teachers (AUT), confirmed that the lecturers would stage a picket on April 24 and April 25, between 9 AM and 2 PM. During this period, no teaching activities will take place at the university. Reads the notice in part:
<blockquote>
The AUT now formally advises that it will hold its picketing at the University of Zimbabwe on 24 April 2025 and 25 April 2025 between 9 am to 2 pm.
As discussed, the AUT requests your support and protection during the picketing process. Dr. Kadare and Professor Vengeyi will be the liaising people with your officers.
</blockquote>
The lecturers are said to be earning less than US$250 a month — with a chunk of that paid in the local ZiG currency, amounting to roughly ZiG 5,000.
Now, they’re demanding a return to the US$2,500 monthly salary that junior lecturers earned before October 2018 — a figure they say reflects the value of their work and qualifications.
Their first job action on April 16 was quickly disrupted when police arrived on campus and arrested three union leaders.
But in a major legal win, the lecturers secured a High Court ruling affirming their right to peaceful protest.
Justice Benjamin Chikowero ruled that members of the Association of University Teachers can legally sing, dance, wave placards, conduct prayers, and deliver speeches in solidarity during their demonstrations.
To ensure order, both AUT and the police agreed on a set of safeguards. These include the appointment of two liaison officers for direct engagement with police, and marshals stationed at the protest to maintain discipline.
The picket, scheduled for April 24 and 25 from 9AM to 2PM, will be confined to two spots: the Churchill Avenue and Mount Pleasant entrances of the university.

University of Zimbabwe lecturers want more pay, so they are going on strike for two days. They were stopped by police before, but now a court says they can protest peacefully. They are unhappy because they earn very little money and want to go back to their old salary. Now, they will not teach on Thursday and Friday. They will have a protest at the university from 9AM to 2PM. The police will be there to make sure everything is safe and organized.

University Of Zimbabwe Lecturers Strike Again Over Pay

Several University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturers were arrested on Wednesday morning after staging a peaceful picket at their workplace, demanding a salary review from university authorities.
The arrested leaders of the Association of University Teachers (AUT) are Borncase Mwakorera, Obvious Vengeyi, and Desmond Ndedzu. They were taken to Avondale Police Station.
The lecturers, who are members of AUT, are calling for their salaries to be restored to pre-October 2018 levels, when a junior lecturer earned approximately US$2,500.
The arrests occurred despite AUT leaders having formally sought permission from both the police and university authorities to go on strike.
AUT legal adviser Munyaradzi Gwisai said the police claimed the picketing was unlawful. He said:
<blockquote>
In terms of the law it is clear that the labour law allows registered trade unions to authorise a picket as long as the strike is lawful and this is exactly what happened.
It is a registered union and it authorises a picket and the university was advised and they refused to have the picket in their premises hence it was done outside… the police complicit with university authorities want to suppress a lawful and constitutional strike.
</blockquote>
This is the second time in as many weeks that University of Zimbabwe lecturers have attempted to go on strike, after their initial effort was blocked by the parent ministry.
A lecturer, who spoke on to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200040845/police-crush-uz-lecturers-demonstration">NewsDay</a> condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation, said what angered staff the most was a visit by Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Fredrick Shava, during which he promised to align their salaries with regional standards—a promise that has yet to be fulfilled. Said the lecturer:
<blockquote>
The Higher and Tertiary Education minister Fredrick Shava came to UZ after hearing through outspoken veteran Blessed Geza’s press conference that lecturers are earning the salary of garden boys.
That’s when the minister promised to pay us salaries equivalent to our regional peers.
</blockquote>
University of Zimbabwe lecturers are currently earning around US$300, along with a ZiG component that, when converted, does not exceed US$200—far below the previous benchmark, when professors earned up to US$5,000.

Several lecturers from the University of Zimbabwe were arrested for peacefully protesting about their low salaries. They are part of a group called AUT and want their salaries to be increased to levels from before October 2018. The leaders had asked for permission to protest but were still arrested. This is the second time they have tried to strike, but their previous attempt was stopped by the government. The lecturers are angry because a promise made by the Higher and Tertiary Education Minister to raise their salaries has not been fulfilled. Currently, they earn much less than before, with some only making around US$300.

UZ Lecturers Arrested During Peaceful Salary Protest

A section of the Grade Three textbook Ventures Primary: Family, Religion, and Moral Education has sparked debate over gender roles in Zimbabwe’s education system. 
The textbook describes boys as “strong, unemotional, dominant, and competitive,” while portraying girls as “emotional, submissive, nurturing, and less competitive.”
These characterisations, embedded in the national curriculum, have raised concerns about the impact of such narratives on the development of young learners.
Chido Sango, a girl-child empowerment advocate, warned that discouraging boys from expressing vulnerability may lead them to suppress their emotions. 
She said teaching girls to be submissive could leave them feeling unqualified for leadership roles. She described the messaging in the textbook as a form of “indoctrination” that reinforces limiting gender stereotypes. Said Sango:
<blockquote>
When children internalise these roles, boys may suppress empathy, while girls may avoid leadership. I have always told my daughter that she is not docile. 
She may get it wrong in the exam because of what she was taught in class, but at least I would have groomed her to be the woman she has to be, assertive. This isn’t education, its indoctrination.
</blockquote>
A teacher at a Government primary in Sakubva, who requested anonymity, said:
<blockquote>
I am also not in agreement with some of the characteristics stated in that section. We teach it because that is what is in the approved syllabus.
However, as an individual, before I teach that section, I always make sure I emphasise to the learners that they are all equal and the girl child can be as competitive as the boy child. With the correct mentality, they can even do better.
</blockquote>
Manicaland Provincial Education Director Richard Gabaza said that the textbook in question was developed under the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC), which is now being phased out in favour of the new Heritage-Based Curriculum. He said:
<blockquote>
The curriculum is still being implemented now, and they are still writing the textbooks.
We expect some changes in line with the tenets of the Heritage-Based Curriculum.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/textbook-gender-bias-sparks-debate/">The Manica Post</a>

A Grade Three textbook in Zimbabwe has caused a debate about gender roles. Boys are described as strong, while girls are seen as submissive. Some people worry this may affect how kids grow up. An advocate says boys should be allowed to show emotions and girls should be encouraged to be leaders. A teacher disagrees with the textbook but teaches it because it's required. The government is working on a new curriculum that may change these stereotypes in textbooks. It's important to treat all kids equally and allow them to be who they want to be.

Gender Stereotypes In Grade Three Textbook Spark National Debate

The Cabinet considered and approved the Zimbabwe School Examination Amendment Bill on Tuesday, 8 April.
If the bill is eventually passed into law, individuals convicted of leaking public examination question papers could face up to nine years in prison. Schools found guilty of the same offence would be deregistered and shut down under the proposed legislation.
The new regulations also state that anyone caught impersonating a student and sitting for an exam on their behalf will face imprisonment.
Previously, those found guilty of similar offences could face up to a year in jail, but in many cases, the courts opted for community service instead.
Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Jenfan Muswere, said:
<blockquote>
The decision to amend the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council Act [Chapter 25:18] is to address challenges obtaining in the education sector, in particular, examination leakages, registration anomalies and fraudulent practices at some examination centres countrywide.
The Zimbabwe School Examinations Amendment Bill, 2024, therefore has inter-alia, the following objectives: streamlining Board functions to provide for the deregistration of non-compliant examination centres; strengthening of the operational efficiency of the Board; and reviewing of penalties for examination malpractices. More critically, the Bill eliminates leakages across all examination centres.
</blockquote>
Speaking at the same briefing, Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Torerai Moyo, said:
<blockquote>
It should be noted that on leakages, we have had leakages especially in 2022 where more than five examination question papers leaked, especially, for Ordinary Level.
To address this mischief, we have come with this new Bill. According to section 141 of the Constitution, the general public will decide as they make submissions to the Bill, they will decide on the penalties, but what we are proffering as a solution is imprisonment of those culprits.
We are likely to come up with penalties, for leakage of one paper, one may be imprisoned for a period that exceeds nine years so that it becomes a deterrent measure to those who may want to engage in that criminal act.
Another measure is the deregistration of examination centres.
We are going to penalise those schools, registered or not. In the majority of cases unregistered centres as compared to registered centres (are often the culprits). So, we are going to deal decisively with this by deregistering these centres.
Another way is the issue of impersonation, where someone will masquerade as a bona fide student, writing the examination for another person. Those that will be caught will also face the same music and go to jail.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/exam-cheats-to-be-jailed-9yrs/">The Herald</a>

The government in Zimbabwe is making a new law that says if someone leaks exam papers they could go to jail for up to nine years. This law also says schools that do this will be closed. If someone pretends to be a student and takes an exam for them, they could go to jail too. Before, the punishment was not as severe. The government wants to stop exam cheating and make sure students take exams fairly. This new law will make sure people who cheat in exams face serious consequences.

New Bill Proposes 9-Year Jail Term For Leaking ZIMSEC Exam Papers, Impersonation

Solusi University is set to exhume 14 unidentified graves at its farm to make way for a major arable land expansion project.
The university, located in Bulilima Ward 19, issued a public notice confirming the exhumation of the graves, which are believed to be unclaimed and undocumented.
The Seventh-day Adventist-run institution said that the graves, situated 18 km from the campus, are obstructing important development plans.
The university stated that the exhumation will be carried out in compliance with the Cemeteries Act and the National Museums and Monuments Act. Part of the statement reads:
<blockquote>
The exhumation will be carried out in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, and with utmost respect and dignity for the deceased.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/graves-to-go-solusi-uni-digs-up-the-dead-for-farm-project/">HeraldOnline</a>

Solusi University needs more land for farming. There are 14 graves in the way. The graves are unknown and unclaimed. They will be moved away. The university says they are following the law and will do it respectfully. The graves are blocking important plans for the university. It is a Seventh-day Adventist university. The graves are far from the campus. They want to expand their farm. The exhumation will be done carefully and legally.

Solusi University To Exhume 14 Graves "Obstructing Important Development Plans"

The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) has distanced itself from the mass protests planned by some disgruntled war veterans on 31 March. ZIMTA has said teachers should report for work as usual, since the day is a normal working day.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/unsanctioned-protests-reckless-retrogressive/">The Herald</a>, ZIMTA Secretary-General Goodwill Taderera said teachers do not take part in unauthorised protests. Instead, they use the National Joint Negotiating Council platform to express their concerns. Said Taderera:
<blockquote>
We have totally nothing to do with that. We are not a political party. We are law-abiding citizens. If we have our issues, we know where to go. 
We know that we discuss through the National Joint Negotiating Council. And if we have any issues, that’s where we direct them.
Monday is a working day so our teachers will be at work. We have no instructions to make our teachers not to go to work. They should just report for duty. It’s a normal day as far as we are concerned.
</blockquote>
Blessed Geza, a former ZANU-PF Central Committee member and war veteran, has called for mass protests on March 31 to demand the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. 
Geza accuses Mnangagwa’s government of corruption, economic mismanagement, and cronyism, which he claims have led to poverty and hardship in Zimbabwe.
Geza’s call for protests has gained attention, especially after his dramatic return to social media, where he urged Zimbabweans to join what he called an “unstoppable wave” of demonstrations. 
He has also invited opposition leaders to join the movement, though some have distanced themselves from his call.
In response, the government has deployed anti-riot police across the country and placed security forces on high alert, showing the seriousness with which it is treating the situation.

ZIMTA, a teachers' association, says teachers should work on March 31, not join protests by war veterans. They use a different platform to express concerns. War veteran Blessed Geza wants protests for President Mnangagwa to resign due to corruption and poverty in Zimbabwe. Some opposition leaders are invited, but government is prepared with police and security forces. Teachers should work as usual and not join unauthorized protests, says ZIMTA.

ZIMTA: Teachers Should Work As Usual On March 31

The government is working on plans to begin paying teachers for their role in invigilating the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) examinations.
At present, teachers are not compensated for their work during the exams, while other service providers, such as security personnel, are paid for their duties during the ZIMSEC examination processes.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/government-to-pay-invigilation-allowances/">The Manica Post</a> during a Learning Passport tour of schools in various parts of Manicaland Province this week, Taungana Ndoro, the Director of Communication and Advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, explained:
<blockquote>
The issue of invigilation and payment of teachers for that task (examination invigilation) has been discussed for a while.
We are happy that the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council led by Dr Nembaware has gone on a benchmarking exercise throughout Africa and other countries to find out how best to treat invigilators. 
So we are hopeful that they will come up with a win-win situation for the issues raised by the teachers about invigilators and their welfare.
It is really under consideration, and we are hopeful that something positive will come out of that.
</blockquote>
ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicky Dhlamini said the decision to pay invigilators is up to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, as it is responsible for employing teachers. She said:
<blockquote>
ZIMSEC actually engaged teachers and the parent ministry way back in 2018 when this issue was first raised, to which the ministry gave a response. ZIMSEC is guided by the ministry as the main shareholder and parent ministry.
So, until such a directive is given by the ministry, ZIMSEC cannot give any direction. Teachers are invigilating at their stations of work so the direction comes from their employer.
</blockquote>
Several teacher representative organisations, including the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), had already raised the issue of paying invigilators with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.

The government is planning to start paying teachers for watching over exams in Zimbabwe. Right now, teachers don't get paid for this, but other workers like security guards do. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is discussing this issue with ZIMSEC. ZIMSEC says it is up to the Ministry to decide if teachers should be paid for invigilating exams. Teacher unions have already talked to the Ministry about this. Hopefully, a decision will be made soon to pay teachers for this important task.

Teachers To Be Paid For Invigilating ZIMSEC Exams

Teachers have long raised concerns about the lack of compensation for Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) examination invigilators, and they believe it is time for these issues to be addressed.
Currently, teachers are not paid for their work during the exams, while other service providers, such as security personnel, are compensated for their roles in the ZIMSEC examination processes.
In its submission to the ZIMSEC Strategic Planning Review Sessions of 2025, the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) said:
<blockquote>
ZIMSEC must engage teachers through signed contracts. This protects the rights of teachers engaged in ZIMSEC business so that they will not be subjected to abuse. The contracts must clearly spell out the conditions of service and allowances to be paid thereafter.
All those engaged in ZIMSEC business must be paid as what happened with other parastatals which engage teachers each time they want their services. A case to note is the non-payment of invigilation by ZIMSEC.
Invigilation must be paid for, and any teacher who is engaged in invigilation of ZIMSEC examinations must be paid reasonable allowances using standard rates.
ZIMSEC has the temerity of paying police officers, resident monitors, item writers and others, but refuses to pay the invigilator who is subjected to a tempting and strenuous exercise which validates the whole examination process.
In addition to the above, invigilators are subjected to a barrage of rules and regulations, some of which are harsh for those with chronic diseases.
For example, an invigilator is not supposed to sit down, is supposed to be standing even if the paper is two or three hours long. We view this as some form of punishment.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Rural Teachers Union (ZRTU) president Martin Chaburumunda said that everyone involved in the examination process should be compensated, especially since ZIMSEC charges learners to sit for the exams. Said Chaburumunda:
<blockquote>
This is a very contentious issue in schools. It is long overdue as we have been complaining as unions that teachers who perform ZIMSEC duties should be paid. 
Some teachers, especially those teaching practical subjects, start the examination process two or three months before, monitoring learners and safe keeping their products.
Everyone involved in the examination process must be paid because ZIMSEC charges learners to sit the examinations, yet teachers, who make sure that there is order before, during and after exams are not considered.
Teachers work for Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, and not ZIMSEC, which they are being made to provide services for free. 
If ZIMSEC pays the teachers who do the marking and compiling, why not those who invigilate. We will really appreciate if there are moves to bring this outstanding matter to fruition.
</blockquote>
Taungana Ndoro, the Director of Communication and Advocacy in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, recently said that the issue of compensating teachers for invigilation is currently under consideration.
ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicky Dhlamini added that the decision to pay invigilators ultimately lies with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, as it is responsible for employing teachers.
More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/government-to-pay-invigilation-allowances/">The Manica Post</a>

Teachers in Zimbabwe are not being paid for supervising exams, but they want compensation just like other workers. A teacher's union is demanding that teachers be paid for invigilating ZIMSEC exams. They believe that since ZIMSEC charges students for exams, teachers should be paid for their work. The Ministry of Education is considering the issue, but the final decision lies with them. Teachers feel it is unfair that they are not compensated for this important job, especially since other workers involved in the exam process are paid.

Teachers Demand Compensation For Invigilating ZIMSEC Examinations

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has urged parents and guardians with children yet to register for the 2025 November Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations to take advantage of the current registration mop-up and consolidation period, as there will be no further extensions.
On Wednesday, March 26, ZIMSEC announced that a registration mop-up exercise would be held from March 31 to May 16, 2025, for candidates who missed the initial deadline to register for the 2025 November examinations.
This extension was granted following concerns raised by Members of Parliament, who argued that the early deadline would prevent many disadvantaged students from registering.
According to Examinations Circular Number 13 of 2025, dated March 26, ZIMSEC said the mop-up and consolidation facility will run from March 31 to May 16, 2025, with no further extensions beyond this period. Reads the circular:
<blockquote>
EXAMINATIONS CIRCULAR NUMBER 13 OF 2025
DISTRIBUTION
<ul>
<li>Secretary – Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education</li>
<li>Secretary – Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare</li>
<li>Chief Directors – Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education</li>
<li>Provincial Education Directors – Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education</li>
<li>District Schools Inspectors – Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education</li>
<li>Heads – Ordinary and Advanced Level Examination Centres</li>
<li>REGISTRATION MOP-UP AND CONSOLIDATION FACILITY FOR THE NOVEMBER 2025 EXAMINATIONS</li>
</ul>
This circular serves to advise all Heads of examination centres, candidates, parents and stakeholders that the Council has provided a registration mop up and consolidation facility for the November Ordinary and Advanced Level 2025 Examinations to accommodate candidates who failed to register during the registration period.
The registration mop up window will accommodate, inter alia, the following:
i. Candidates who failed to meet the deadline for the registration for the November 2025 Examinations.
ii. Candidates who wish to amend their initial registration.
iii. Candidates who would like to update their Continuous Assessment (CA) declaration details.
iv. Centres who erroneously registered private candidates as Formal candidates and would like to regularise their registration and top up examination fees in line with Government policy on eligibility to Examination fees subsidy.
This facility does not apply to June and Grade Seven (7) 2025 registration. Candidates who missed registration for the June Examinations may register for the November Examinations during this period. 
Heads of Examination Centres are reminded to submit requests for amendments through the Amendment Forms and not through the CRS.
The registration mop up and consolidation facility will run from 31 MARCH to 16 MAY 2025.
Please note that this facility will not be extended beyond this period.
</blockquote>

ZIMSEC said that there will be no more time to register for the 2025 November exams after May 16. They gave an extra time for those who missed the first deadline. The extra time is from March 31 to May 16. Students can register, change their details, or fix mistakes during this time. The facility is only for November exams, not for June exams or Grade Seven exams. Schools need to use specific forms to make any changes. This is the final chance, so students and schools should not miss it.

ZIMSEC Warns No Further Extensions For Registration Deadline Beyond 16 May

Bryden Country School, located in Chegutu, Mashonaland West Province, has secured a High Court interim order to stop the construction of a cement manufacturing plant by Shuntai Investments Private Limited.
The proposed plant, which is expected to have an annual production capacity of 800,000 tonnes and create 800 jobs, is being built near the school premises.
The school claims it was excluded from key consultations, especially the ongoing environmental impact assessment.
Its concerns include potential dust and air pollution, noise, water contamination, and increased traffic due to the plant’s close proximity to the campus.
Justice Regis Dembure ordered Shuntai and its affiliates to suspend all activities related to the cement factory, brick moulding plant, and quarry mining project at Plot 8, Eastbourne, in Chegutu.
The project had proceeded without the necessary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Certificate, development permits, and land tenure documents, violating a previous penalty issued by the Environmental Management Agency for non-compliance.
The private school is represented by Joshua George Manyumbu and Andrea Dracos of Gollop &amp; Blank, Bryden School.
The lawyers argued that the plant’s operations could cause significant harm, such as damaging buildings and exposing students and staff to harmful pollutants like cement dust, benzene, and emissions from coal-burning.
Shuntai did not attend the court hearing to contest the matter.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/bryden-school-secures-court-order-to-stop-cement-plant-construction/">The Herald</a>

Bryden Country School in Chegutu won a court order to stop a cement plant from being built near their school. The school was worried about pollution from the plant like dust, noise, and dirty water. The company building the plant did not have all the right permits. The court ordered them to stop all work until everything was sorted out. The school is represented by lawyers who are taking action to protect the students and staff from harmful things that could come from the plant. Shuntai, the company building the plant, did not show up to the court hearing.

Bryden Country School Wins High Court Order To Stop Construction Of Cement Factory

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) will conduct a registration mop-up exercise from 31 March to 16 May 2025 for prospective candidates who missed the deadline to register for the 2025 November examinations.
This follows a recent announcement by the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerayi Moyo, that the ZIMSEC registration deadline for the November Grade 7, Ordinary Level, and Advanced Level exams will be extended.
The extension was granted after lawmakers raised concerns that the early deadline would prevent many disadvantaged students from registering for the exams.
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday, 26 March, ZIMSEC clarified that the mop-up and consolidation facility applies only to the November Ordinary and Advanced Level 2025 examinations.
ZIMSEC did not mention Grade 7 candidates, saying those who missed the June 2025 registration for O’ Level and A’ level should register for the November 2025 exams. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
ZIMSEC would like to advise all Heads of examination centres, candidates, parents and stakeholders that the Council has provided a registration mop-up and consolidation facility for the November Ordinary and Advanced Level 2025 Examinations to accommodate candidates who failed to register during the registration period. The window is open from the 31st of March 2025 to the 16th of May 2025.
This facility does not apply to June 2025 candidates. Candidates who missed registration for the June Examinations should register for the November Examinations during this period.
</blockquote>
In an earlier statement, ZIMSEC reassured repeating candidates that their Continuous Assessment Learning Activities (CALA) marks will remain valid for up to six examination cycles.
Candidates can continue re-sitting exams and use their banked CALA marks for certification if they wish.
ZIMSEC clarified that 2022 CALA marks are valid until June 2025, 2023 marks until June 2026, and 2024 marks until June 2027.
However, 2021 CALA marks have expired and can no longer be used.

ZIMSEC is giving extra time for students to sign up for exams in November 2025. The deadline is now 16 May 2025. This happened because some people were worried that students who needed more time to register would miss out. The extension applies to Advanced and Ordinary Level exams, not Grade 7. ZIMSEC also said that marks from past years can still be used for certification, but marks from 2021 are no longer valid. So, if you missed registering earlier, you still have a chance to take the exams in November.

ZIMSEC Extends Registration Deadline For November 2025 Exams

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has blocked officials in Midlands Province from asking schoolchildren to pay US$1 each to raise funds for Independence Day celebrations.
On March 25, 2025, Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) T. Mahlokozera wrote to the Provincial Education Director (PED) for Midlands Province. The letter advised that schools should hold a one-time Civics Day, where students would pay no more than US$1 each.
Mahlokozera said the funds raised would be used to buy regalia, food, and fuel for the 205 students, 20 teachers, and 138 heads attending the Independence Day celebrations, which will take place at Mutora Business Centre in Nembudziya, Gokwe North District, Midlands Province, on April 18.
However, on March 26, 2025, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education issued a statement saying schools should ignore this fundraising request, as it had not been approved.
The Ministry also said the Gweru DSI must explain their actions, as they went against established rules, and disciplinary measures will be taken if necessary. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Condemns Unauthorised Independence Day Levy on Pupils</h2>
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education acknowledges the concerns raised regarding à directive for schoolchildren in Gweru District to contribute up to US$1 each toward the 2025 Independence Day celebrations. We wish to clarify the following:
<h2>1. Budget Allocation:</h2>
The Ministry has already secured adequate funding through the national budget for all Independence Day commemorations, including planned activities in Gokwe. There is no requirement for schools, learners, parents, or community members to contribute financially to these events.
<h2>2. Unauthorised Directive:</h2>
The letter issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) requesting such contributions is unauthorised, unwarranted, and without basis in Ministry policy. The Ministry condemns any attempt to impose financial burdens on learners or institutions for national events.
<h2>3. Accountability:</h2>
The Ministry has initiated an immediate inquiry into the matter. The official responsible for the directive will be required to provide a full explanation for their actions, which contravene established protocols. Disciplinary measures will be taken as appropriate.
<h2>4. Guidance to Schools:</h2>
All school heads, teachers, and stakeholders are instructed to disregard the directive. No payments should be solicited or collected for this purpose. Any individual or institution pressured to contribute is urged to report the matter directly to the Ministry.
<h2>5. Commitment to Transparency:</h2>
The Ministry reaffirms its dedication to equitable, inclusive, and non-exploitative practices in education. We apologise unreservedly for any anxiety caused and assure the public that safeguards are being strengthened to prevent such incidents.
Independence Day remains a moment of national unity, and we urge all citizens to participate freely in celebrations without undue financial obligations.
</blockquote>

The government asked students to pay money for Independence Day but then said sorry. They have enough money already. Officials who asked for money will be in trouble. Schools should not ask for money. The government wants fair and equal education. They are sorry for making people worried. They want people to celebrate Independence Day without money stress.

Government Apologizes Over Directive For Schoolchildren To Fund Independence Day Celebrations

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has condemned the move by authorities ordering all schools in Gweru District, Midlands Province, to hold civic days to raise funds for Independence Day celebrations.
According to a letter dated March 25, 2025, from the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) addressed to the Provincial Education Director (PED) for Midlands Province, schools are expected to hold a once-off Civics Day, where learners are required to pay no more than US$1 each.
The DSI, T. Mahlokozera, said the funds raised will be used to purchase regalia, food, and fuel for the 205 students, 20 teachers, and 138 heads attending the Independence Day celebrations, which will be held in Nembudziya, Gokwe North District, Midlands Province, on April 18.
ARTUZ described the directive as unethical, illegal, and a violation of Section 75 of the Constitution, which mandates the government to provide state-funded basic education. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
It is unethical and illegal for government to force schools to fund the partisan junket dedicated to the violation of the constitution. Zimbabwe’s schools are severely underfunded because of government’s neglect. 
The parents are bearing the burden of funding education in violation of section 75 of the Constitution which mandates government to provide state funded basic education. 
It is cruel for [President Emmerson] Mnangagwa’s government to extract from the incapacitated schools. We urge school heads to refuse to participate in this illegality. We stand ready to defend our schools from abuse.
</blockquote>
The requirement for schoolchildren to fund Independence Day celebrations is unusual, though not surprising, considering that civil servants in rural areas are asked to pay US$2 each, while villagers must contribute US$5 to fund the festivities.
Typically, party activists write down the names of those who contribute, and every villager is therefore intimidated into parting with their money for fear of reprisals.

The teachers union in Zimbabwe is unhappy that schools are being asked to raise money for Independence Day celebrations. The schools in Gweru District have been told to hold a special day where students must pay at least $1 each. The money raised will be used for regalia, food, and fuel for the celebrations. The teachers union says this is not fair because the government should be funding education. They are asking school heads to refuse to take part. This kind of fundraising is not normal, but people in rural areas are also being asked to contribute.

Teachers Condemn Schools' Fundraising Directive For Independence Day

Schoolchildren will fund the 2025 Independence Day celebrations, which will be held in Nembudziya, Gokwe North District, Midlands Province, through a once-off Civics Day, where they are required to pay no more than US$1 each.
According to a letter dated 25 March 2025, from the Gweru District Schools Inspector (DSI) addressed to the Provincial Education Director (PED) for Midlands Province, school heads are expected to deposit the money raised on Civics Day into the BSPZ account.
The DSI, T. Mahlokozera, said the funds raised will be used to purchase regalia, food, and fuel for the 205 students, 20 teachers, and 138 heads attending the Nembudziya Independence Day celebrations. Part of the letter reads:
<blockquote>
The District is requesting all schools to conduct a once-off civics in order to purchase regalia, food and fuel including unforeseen costs for the Nembudziya Independence Celebrations to be conducted on the 18th of April 2025.
The Heads are expected to deposit the civics money in the BSPZ account. The civic money must not exceed 1$ per child.
</blockquote>
The requirement for schoolchildren to fund Independence Day celebrations is unusual, though not surprising, considering that civil servants in rural areas are asked to pay US$2 each, while villagers must contribute US$5 to fund the festivities.
Independence Day is celebrated annually on April 18, marking the country’s liberation from colonial rule in 1980.
The day is filled with vibrant parades, traditional dances, and festivities that showcase Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
This year’s event will be held at Mutora Business Centre. A Children’s Party will take place at Nyamuroro High School, and the Independence Gala will be held at Nembudziya Government High School on April 17.
Football enthusiasts can look forward to matches between Simba Bhora and FC Platinum at the main celebrations, while Herentals Queens and Black Rhinos will play at the Children’s Party.

Schoolchildren in Gokwe have to pay $1 each for Independence Day. The money will be used for celebrations like buying clothes, food, and fuel. Adults in rural areas also need to pay for the festivities. Independence Day happens on April 18 every year, marking Zimbabwe's freedom in 1980. There will be parades, dances, and fun to show the country's culture. This year's celebration will be in Mutora with activities for children and adults. Football games will also be part of the fun.

Schoolchildren To Contribute US$1 Each For Independence Day Celebrations In Gokwe

The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has instructed its staff to disregard the collective job action called for by the Association of University Teachers (AUT).
In a memo dated March 22, 2025, signed by UZ registrar Munyaradzi Madambi, it was stated that any collective job action in response to AUT’s call would be considered unlawful, as the Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Edgar Moyo, had issued a Show Cause Order for the university. Said Madambi:
<blockquote>
The University of Zimbabwe remains committed to engaging all its staff for improved welfare and conditions of service in line with government policy and its new transformational thrust as inspired by our Heritage-based Education 5.0 philosophy.
</blockquote>
A “Show Cause Order” is a legal document that requires a party to explain or justify why a particular action should not be taken or why a specific order should not be enforced.
On Friday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo issued a Show Cause Order after University of Zimbabwe (UZ) authorities failed to meet lecturers’ salary demands.
AUT Secretary-General Borncase Mwakorera described the move as a “temporary setback” and said the association’s members would meet soon to discuss the next steps.
Lecturers at the University of Zimbabwe, represented by AUT, are calling for their salaries to be reinstated to pre-October 2018 levels.
They argue that in October 2018, their salaries were significantly reduced from US$2,250 per month for a junior lecturer to under US$300, plus a small local currency component worth less than US$200 when converted.
This reduction, an 87% cut, has left many lecturers struggling to meet basic needs such as housing, food, transportation, and even their children’s education.
AUT claims to have sent over 27 letters to the university since 2018 requesting salary adjustments but has received only one response.
The lecturers also allege that the university has not fulfilled certain contractual obligations, including paying for funeral policies and health insurance.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039936/ignore-strike-uz-tells-disgruntled-staff">NewsDay</a>

The University of Zimbabwe is telling its lecturers to not go on strike even though their union, the Association of University Teachers, called for one. The government has warned the university that a strike would be illegal. The lecturers want their salaries restored to pre-2018 levels because they have been cut by 87%. The union has been trying to negotiate with the university for a while now, but they have not received a proper response. The lecturers are struggling to meet their basic needs and want the university to fulfill their contractual obligations.

University Of Zimbabwe Instructs Lecturers To Ignore AUT's Call For A Strike

The Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) has raised concern over the growing number of unregistered institutions operating illegally and awarding fraudulent undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, including bogus earned and honorary Ph.Ds.
As the national regulatory and quality assurance body for higher education, ZIMCHE is responsible for overseeing the accreditation, registration, and evaluation of higher learning institutions to ensure they meet the required standards.
In a statement, ZIMCHE lamented that these unlawful activities undermine the integrity and quality of Zimbabwe’s higher education system, posing significant risks to the public. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
<h2>Conferment and Use of Fake/Fraudulent Degrees</h2>
The Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) has noted with grave concern the proliferation of unregistered institutions operating unlawfully and conferring fraudulent undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, including purportedly earned and honourary Ph.Ds.
These activities undermine the integrity and quality of Zimbabwe’s higher education system and pose significant risks to the public.
The ZIMCHE has identified several unregistered institutions engaged in these illegal practices and has issued closure orders to curb their operations.
Unfortunately, some institutions persist in defying the law, continuing to enrol students and issuing fraudulent degrees.
Of particular concern is also the use of these fraudulent qualifications and false titles such as “Professor” or “Doctor” by officials from these unregistered institutions as well as recipients of the qualifications.
In the case of the latter, recipients include unsuspecting members of the public who are duped out of their hard-earned money, while in some cases the recipients are willing accomplices to academic and qualifications fraud.
As the regulatory authority mandated under The ZIMCHE Act [Chapter 25:27], the ZIMCHE is committed to safeguarding the standards, quality, and credibility of Zimbabwe’s Higher Education System.
In this regard, unregistered institutions are unequivocally warned to cease operations immediately, withdraw all fraudulent qualifications, and desist from issuing or conferring any degrees including purportedly earned and honourary Ph.Ds.
Recipients of fraudulent qualifications and false titles are strongly advised to stop using these credentials or risk legal consequences, including civil and criminal prosecution.
To protect stakeholders including students, employers, and the public, the ZIMCHE has initiated investigations into these unlawful activities.
Appropriate legal measures will be taken against both unregistered institutions and individuals found complicit in academic fraud.
Members of the public are urged to exercise vigilance by verifying the accreditation status of such institutions with the ZIMCHE before enrolling in any programmes.
Similarly, employers are encouraged to thoroughly authenticate qualifications presented by prospective employees with the ZIMCHE.
Members of the public should always be on the lookout for unregistered institutions, that in some cases frequently change their locations to evade detection.
Some of these institutions are not owned by Zimbabweans, while others claim affiliation with dubious “international” universities that are not even registered and accredited in their countries of origin.
The ZIMCHE remains resolute in its mission to uphold the integrity and quality of Zimbabwe’s higher education system and is intensifying efforts to ensure that only accredited institutions operate within our borders, maintaining the integrity and high-quality standards that have been built over decades.
</blockquote>

The Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) is worried about fake colleges giving out fake degrees, even Ph.Ds. ZIMCHE's job is to make sure that schools are good enough. They say that these fake degrees hurt the education system and fool people. ZIMCHE is telling fake schools to close and stop giving out fake degrees. They will take legal action if they don't stop. People should check with ZIMCHE to make sure a school is real. The goal is to keep the education system in Zimbabwe honest and good for everyone.

Counterfeit Degrees And Ph.D.s Threaten Zimbabwe’s Education System - ZIMCHE

Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo stepped in on Friday to prevent a planned strike by University of Zimbabwe lecturers. The lecturers had planned to go on strike starting Monday to demand higher salaries.
The university had not met the lecturers’ salary demands, leading to a Show Cause Order, which is a formal request to explain why they hadn’t met the demands. Moyo approved this order.
Borncase Mwakorera, the secretary-general of the Association of University Teachers (AUT), called Moyo’s intervention a “temporary setback”. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s just a temporary setback but will be meeting our members on Monday for the way forward. Who knows, they may resolve to go ahead with the strike.
</blockquote>
Lecturers at the University of Zimbabwe, who fall under AUT, are demanding that their salaries be raised to the pre-October 2018 level.
AUT said that in October 2018, lecturers’ salaries were drastically reduced from US$2,250 per month for a junior lecturer to less than US$300 per month, plus a small local currency component that translates to less than US$200 when converted.
This cut represents an 87% reduction in their salaries, leaving lecturers struggling to cover basic needs such as housing, food, and transportation. Many say they can’t afford to pay for their children’s education at UZ or even basic daily expenses.
The AUT claims they have sent over 27 letters to the university authorities since 2018, asking for salary improvements, but have received only one response.
The lecturers also say that the university has not fulfilled its contractual obligations, such as paying for funeral policies and health insurance.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039866/minister-intervenes-in-uz-lecturers-dispute">NewsDay</a>

University of Zimbabwe lecturers were planning a strike for higher salaries, but Minister Edgar Moyo stopped it. The lecturers wanted their salaries back to what they were before October 2018. Their pay was cut drastically, making it hard for them to cover basic needs. They have been asking for better pay since 2018, but only received one response from the university. The lecturers are also upset because the university has not fulfilled its promises about funeral policies and health insurance. The lecturers will decide what to do next on Monday.

Minister’s Intervention Averts University Of Zimbabwe Lecturers' Strike

Delta Corporation has welcomed the recipients of its 2025 bursary programme, encouraging them to strive for excellence, integrity, and innovation as they work towards their academic goals.
Speaking at the Bursary Induction Programme on Wednesday, Patricia Murambinda, the General Manager of Corporate Affairs at Delta Corporation, urged the students to stay disciplined and resilient when facing challenges. She said:
<blockquote>
As you embark on this academic journey, I encourage you to work hard, remain disciplined, and uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and innovation.
These are the same principles that drive us at Delta Corporation. Challenges will arise, but your determination and resilience will define your path to success.
Education is the foundation of a brighter future—not just for individuals, but for communities and the nation at large.
That is why we remain committed to supporting talented young people like you, who have shown exceptional dedication, perseverance, and potential.
</blockquote>
One of the bursary recipients, Patience Machesi from St. James Chikukwa, said that as a girl, this is a big opportunity because many young women often face challenges in receiving scholarships.
Bradley Makuvaro, a Lower Six student at Bradley High School, said it was an honour to receive the bursary.
Susan Mashinganidze, a parent of one of the recipients, also praised Delta Corporation for its inclusive approach. She said:
<blockquote>
Delta Corporation does not discriminate. My child has a spinal deformity, yet she was accepted for this scholarship. I am very grateful that she now has the support to complete her A-Level studies.
</blockquote>
The Delta Corporation Bursary Programme is designed to help talented students who may not have the financial means to continue their studies.
The programme offers financial support to students pursuing Advanced Level and university education.
More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/delta-welcomes-2025-bursary-recipients/">Business Times</a>

Delta Corporation welcomed students who received bursaries to study. They encouraged them to work hard, be honest, and think creatively. The company wants them to be successful in school. The students were happy to receive the bursaries, especially a girl who said it's rare for girls to get scholarships. One parent was grateful to Delta for accepting her child, despite having a disability. The bursary program helps students who can't afford school fees. It supports students in Advanced Level and university.

Delta Urges 2025 Bursary Recipients To Embrace Integrity And Innovation

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerayi Moyo, has extended the Zimbabwe Schools Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) registration deadline for the November Grade 7, Ordinary Level, and Advanced Level exams to May 16, following pressure from Members of Parliament.
On Thursday, March 20, Moyo announced in the Senate that the original deadline of March 28 had been moved to May 16.
The extension came after lawmakers raised concerns that the early deadline would prevent many disadvantaged students from registering for the exams. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
The public examination fees were scheduled to be paid on or before March 28 but we received a request from parliamentarians this afternoon that the date be extended.
In consultation with the stakeholders, we have agreed that the date be extended to May 16.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, ZIMSEC has reassured repeating candidates that their Continuous Assessment Learning Activities (CALA) marks will remain valid for up to six examination cycles.
Candidates can continue re-sitting exams and use their banked CALA marks for certification if they wish.
ZIMSEC clarified that 2022 CALA marks are valid until June 2025, 2023 marks until June 2026, and 2024 marks until June 2027.
However, 2021 CALA marks have expired and can no longer be used.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/zimsec-extends-december-exam-registration-deadline-by-two-months/">ZimLive</a>

The Minister of Education extended the ZIMSEC exam registration deadline to May 16. This was because lawmakers were worried that students may not have enough time to register. Candidates can use their CALA marks for up to six exam cycles. ZIMSEC clarified that marks from 2022 to 2024 are valid for a few years. However, marks from 2021 have expired. Candidates can now re-sit exams and use their CALA marks for certification.

ZIMSEC Registration Deadline Extended To May 16

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has called for all teachers to strike on 28 March 2025 because the government has not raised salaries to match the rising cost of living.
In a statement released on 19 March 2025, ARTUZ said the government has a history of adjusting civil servants’ salaries every three months. However, as the first quarter of 2025 ends on 31 March, the government has ignored all requests for a salary increase.
The union pointed out that the lowest-paid teacher currently earns around US$300, which is not enough to cover basic needs like education, healthcare, and housing.
ARTUZ repeated its demand for a minimum salary of US$1,260 for teachers, which it believes can only be achieved through regular and meaningful salary increases. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
The government also continues to undermine genuine collective bargaining by negotiating through the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC)—an unconstitutional platform dominated by yellow unions that do not represent the real interests of workers.
These co-opted leaders receive incentives to suppress civil servants’ demands, leaving teachers without a legitimate voice in salary negotiations.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ urged teachers to ignore “compromised” unions and take direct action against the employer through the 28 March strike.
They said this is a chance for teachers to unite and demand fair wages without outside interference.
The union also made it clear that they do not support the War Veterans’ call for President Mnangagwa’s resignation. It said:
<blockquote>
Some teachers have expressed concern that the strike coincides with the War Veterans’ call for President Mnangagwa’s resignation. ARTUZ remains non-partisan and firmly focused on the economic welfare of teachers. Our fight is for fair wages—regardless of who is in power.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ warned teachers that changing leadership doesn’t always mean better pay. They pointed out that even after Robert Mugabe was removed in 2017, teachers’ salaries continued to decrease. The union said:
<blockquote>
It is therefore critical to demand a fair wage now, from Mnangagwa, and from any future leader.
Zimbabwe’s economic crisis is rooted in corruption and mismanagement. ARTUZ notes the widespread allegations of corruption against government officials, particularly those involved in illicit wealth accumulation—the so-called “Zvigananda”.
We call upon law enforcement agencies to conduct full investigations and hold all culprits accountable. Teachers will only receive fair wages when national resources are properly managed.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ said the government should review teachers’ salaries before 28 March 2025. If this doesn’t happen, teachers across the country will hold protests to show their frustration and demand fair pay.

The teachers' union in Zimbabwe, ARTUZ, wants teachers to go on strike on March 28 because they are not paid enough. They say the government has not increased their salaries as the cost of living goes up. They want the minimum salary to be $1,260, but currently, the lowest-paid teacher only earns $300. ARTUZ is also against corrupt leaders and wants fair wages for teachers no matter who is in power. They want the government to review teachers' salaries before the strike, or else teachers will protest for fair pay.

ARTUZ Calls For Teachers' Strike On March 28 Over Low Salaries

The Joshua Nkomo Scholarship is now accepting applications for 2025 from academically gifted students and aspiring leaders who have achieved at least 14 A-Level points in a public examination. The application period runs from March 2 to March 31, 2025.
In a public notice, the Higher Life Foundation, which administers the scholarship, encouraged students interested in pursuing studies in Engineering and Health Sciences to apply. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
Applications for the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship are now open.
We have reimagined the merit-based scholarship program. It will now focus on building the skills of the future and nurturing leaders who add value to their communities.
The Joshua Nkomo Scholarship is open to all academically gifted students and aspiring leaders who attained at least 14 A-Level points in a public examination.
Those seeking to study Engineering and Health Sciences are encouraged to apply.
NB: Students will be expected to participate in community engagement activities and entrepreneurial training programs.
Apply Here: <a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n xd10rxx x1sy0etr x17r0tee x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xkrqix3 x1sur9pj x1fey0fg x1s688f" href="https://lnkd.in/gPNS9_7G?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3zVNT2qqm8xbBmgCuFrZb6M393hmnu85G_6JxxrjMjfclsQqzgljU6ZiU_aem_PoUcUk2KjR1rEYHwhtrTiw" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" role="link" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://lnkd.in/gPNS9_7G</a>
Applications close on 31 March 2025.
</blockquote>

Applications for the 2025 Joshua Nkomo Scholarship are now open for smart students who scored at least 14 A-Level points. The scholarship is for those wanting to study Engineering and Health Sciences. Students will also need to take part in community activities and training programs. The Higher Life Foundation is in charge of the scholarship. Applications are open from March 2 until March 31, 2025. To apply, visit the link provided in the notice. Apply before the deadline on March 31, 2025.

Applications For 2025 Joshua Nkomo Scholarship Open Until 31 March

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has set a fixed exchange rate of ZiG$26.65 to US$1 for examination fees paid in local currency between 10 and 14 March 2025.
This rate applies to fees for the June and November Ordinary Level and Advanced Level exams, as well as Grade 6 and 7 examinations.
In a Finance Circular issued on 10 March, ZIMSEC Director of Finance Zipora Muzenda explained that the fixed rate is part of efforts to streamline payments amid significant currency fluctuations. ZIMSEC will also release weekly exchange rates to help parents and guardians plan their payments.
ZIMSEC will continue to accept fees in the currency chosen by parents or guardians, with examination centres required to remit the fees to the council in the same currency.
The circular was distributed to key education officials, including Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education and Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, as well as regional managers and school heads.
Meanwhile, in a post on its social media pages, ZIMSEC said banked CALA marks will remain in use for the full shelf life of six examination cycles. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
Banked CALA marks will remain in use for the full shelf life of six examination cycles. Repeating candidates can continue to take re-sit examinations and get certified using a CA mark from banked CALA if they so wish. Expiration dates for banked CALA marks are as follows:
<ul>
<li>2022 CALA marks will remain valid until June 2025,</li>
<li>2023 CALA marks will remain valid until June 2026.</li>
<li>2024 CALA marks will remain valid until June 2027.</li>
</ul>
In this regard, repeating candidates are urged to utilise their CALA marks in the examination sessions that fall within the stipulated periods based on the year they deposited the marks.
Please note that the 2021 CALA marks reached the end of their shelf-life and so can no longer be used.
</blockquote>

ZIMSEC, which is the school exams council in Zimbabwe, has set a fixed exchange rate of ZiG$26.65 to US$1 for exam fees to be paid between March 10 and 14, 2025. This rate applies to different exams like Ordinary Level, Advanced Level, and Grade 6 and 7. The fixed rate is to help make payments easier because the currency values keep changing. ZIMSEC will also share weekly exchange rates to help families plan their payments. They will still accept different currencies but all fees will be paid in the same currency. This information was shared with key education officials. Additionally, they also mentioned that some exam marks have expiration dates.

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