Three local schools, Khumalo primary, Pumula High and Higher Learning College were nominated the winners in Bulawayo province.
The Secretary’s Bell is only awarded every five years and recognises outstanding achievements in the provision of quality and relevant education as well as good maintenance of the school’s buildings and surroundings. It was supposed to have been presented by the new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education , Sports, Arts and Culture Sylvia Utete Masango at Khumalo primary school on Wednesday, while Pumula and Higher Learning College were set to receive their awards on Thursday and Friday respectively.
The three schools received a circular from the Ministry on Tuesday around 3 pm notifying them of the cancellation of the wards which consist of a plaque plus $3,000 cash.
“The Ministry has ordered us to postpone the celebrations until the first lady has concluded her rallies. The permanent secretary who was supposed to be the guest of honour is also busy accompanying her,” said a teacher at Pumula High school who refused to be named for fear of victimisation.
On Tuesday Khumalo primary school headmistress, Musa Dungeon, wrote to parents advising them of the cancellation of the function.
Teachers and parents who spoke to The Zimbabwean said the move to cancel the celebrations to pave way for Grace had impacted negatively on the school and parents who had donated most of the food stuffs and other services for the occasion.
“We are stuck with lots and lots of perishables such as meat and vegetables which had been donated by parents and well-wishers specifically for this occasion. As we speak we had already pitched tents for the occasion .We realy feel that the students have been robbed of a lifetime opportunity to celebrate their hard work because of one person," said a teacher.
Post published in: News