Zim Schools fail to open

Uncertainty over fees and levies has also contributed the confusion at most government schools here. There has never been such a huge absence of teachers in Zimbabwe before.
The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) said it was still gathering statistics but seriously worried by the massive exodus of teachers.
PTUZ secretary general Raymond Majongwe, added that many teachers have not availed themselves for the opening of the new term as many had left the country or have joined  the informal sector.
The militant teachers union has been calling for a salary review for teachers saying they should now earn more than Z$500 million from the current figure of below Z$50 million per month.
We were told to go back home for the second day, and the headmaster merely said they were still organizing the issue of staff, a Form 3 pupil at Zengeza High School in Chitungwiza said. There were less than five teachers and we understand the rest of them have either left the country or are pursuing other things.
Students at Highfield High School in Harare were told that the school fees and levy had been increased to Z$48 million from last year’s Z$2,5 million. The same situation prevails at the majority of schools after government approved increases of 600% in fees and levies.
But that is ridiculous, Gerald Moyo, a parent in Harare said. Where do I get such money for my three kids when I earn less than $Z30 million per month?
Education, sports and culture minister Aenias Chigwedere reiterated the hardline stance of the Zanu (PF) regime by threatening to use the law against schools charging exorbitant fees.
Private schools have hiked fees by even higher margins with some boarding schools charging in excess of Z$1 billion.