Artuz slams BEAM funds disbursement, calls for edu...

Artuz slams BEAM funds disbursement, calls for education funding priority

Philemon Jambaya

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe condemned the government’s disbursement of Basic Education Assistance Module funds for the third term of 2022, calling it “appalling and outraged by the gross negligence and blatant disregard for the future of our children”, according to a statement released by the union.

Artuz highlighted the lengthy wait of over a year for the funds, coupled with what they perceive as insufficient allocations. They expressed concern that the meager amounts allocated to schools like Bush Park Primary (ZWL$98 000) and Madzivazvido Primary (ZWL$3 420 000) would not effectively support underprivileged students.

The statement emphasised that “BEAM has effectively crippled our schools, rendering them incapable of delivering quality education.”

The union criticised the government for failing to address widespread abuse of BEAM funds, despite acknowledging the issue last year.

They emphasised the constitutional right to education enshrined in Section 75 of the Zimbabwe Constitution, stating: “Section 75 of the Zimbabwe Constitution, which unequivocally grants every Zimbabwean the inalienable right to a basic state-funded education.” They called for increased budgetary allocation to the education sector.

Artuz pointed out the vast discrepancy between the allocated funds and the actual needs of schools, questioning whether the delay in disbursement was a deliberate tactic to reduce the value due to inflation. They demanded immediate answers, accountability, and a swift and fair distribution of BEAM funds with measures to prevent mismanagement.

The statement concluded with a strong message: “The education of our children hangs in the balance, and it is high time we reclaim their future. Atuz will not stand idly by while the government gambles with our children’s futures. We pledge to continue our unwavering advocacy for the rights of teachers and students in rural areas.”