Treasury prioritising ZWL$57 Million BEAM debt

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwean government has committed to settling its ZWL$57 million debt to the Basic Education Assistance Module, signaling strong support for the nation's education system. This pledge aims to resolve financial challenges that have caused delays in school payments, leading some institutions to hesitate in enrolling more pupils under the scheme.

Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube confirmed that Treasury is prioritizing these payments, acknowledging the strain that delayed disbursements have placed on schools.

The Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare has also committed to ensuring prompt payments as soon as funds are released.

School heads across Zimbabwe have been reluctant to admit additional pupils under the BEAM program due to arrears that have accumulated since last year. However, with this new commitment, there is hope that the situation will improve, allowing more students to benefit from the scheme.

The announcement was made by Professor Ncube during a pre-Budget seminar in Bulawayo, where he stressed the importance of enhancing the BEAM program to ensure students can gain the full advantages it offers. Simon Masanga, Permanent Secretary for Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, echoed this commitment, assuring that his ministry will act swiftly to distribute funds once released by Treasury.

This development marks a positive step for Zimbabwe's education sector, underscoring the government's dedication to addressing the financial challenges that affect schools and their students.