School head throws boarder students out into the n...

School head throws boarder students out into the night over fee hike standoff

Zim Now Writer

Male and female learners of Gutu High School in Masvingo province have reportedly been roaming about after being thrown out of the school over a fees shortfall, causing an outcry from parents and other stakeholders.

“The situation at Gutu High is dire following the head’s demand for extra fees which carries no letter of approval. The students were exposed to the harsh weather and conditions as both boys and the girl child had to sleep outside. It’s heartrending and shocking.

“The head was supposed to settle the matter with parents rather than punish children. She imposed fees at US$400 after US$300 was agreed upon and approved by the Ministry after an online meeting,” said one parent.

The affected boys and girls resorted to sleeping in corridors, the church and the dining hall.

Gutu Urban councillor Bernard Chimwango confirmed the development, saying most of the students were yesterday milling around townships, including Mpandawana Growth Point, since they had no bus fare to go back home to collect fees.

Sympathisers expressed shock that the school head could eject learners to themselves at night exposing them to risks of sexual abuse and other violations.

The school head, Mirirai Mutanda could not be contacted for comment as her mobile was off while the deputy head, Norman Chitamba, referred all questions to the head before switching off his phone .

The director for secondary education in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education reportedly directed Masvingo Provincial Education Director Shylatte Mhike and the Gutu District Schools’ Inspector, Ronald Muganhu to urgently resolve the issue.

Sources said that the online negotiations over fees between the head and parents were deadlocked as some parents insisted on US$300 per term while the head pushed for US$400.

However, when learners reported for the new term, the head pushed out those whose parents had not paid the US$400.