Runodada Witness
Zim Now Reporter
Herentals College, a well-known private educational institution with a nationwide presence, has been fined $300 by the Gweru Magistrates' Court for operating an unregistered independent learning center in the city's Central Business District.
Herentals College, recognized for its comprehensive educational services spanning primary and secondary levels, prides itself on delivering the Zimbabwean curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and practical skill development. However, the institution's Gweru CBD branch fell short of legal requirements.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the court determined that Herentals College [Private] Limited had illegally established, operated, and maintained the Gweru CBD center from 2022 to March 2025. This operation was conducted without the necessary registration from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE), a clear violation of the Education Act.
The Education Act mandates that all independent colleges must be registered with the MoPSE to ensure quality control and adherence to educational standards. Investigations revealed that the Herentals College Gweru CBD center catered to a substantial student body, ranging from 400 to 500 students, and employed eight teachers across various subjects.
Crucially, the MoPSE confirmed that the Gweru CBD branch was not registered and had no record of ever applying for registration. This oversight led to the court's decision to impose the fine, sending a clear message about the importance of compliance within the education sector.
This case raises important questions about the regulatory oversight of private educational institutions and the need for stringent enforcement of the Education Act. While Herentals College is recognized for its contribution to education, this incident serves as a reminder that all institutions, regardless of their reputation, must adhere to legal requirements.
The $300 fine, while seemingly modest, underscores the legal obligation of educational institutions to operate within the framework of the law.
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