Zim Now Writer
The Zimbabwe National Students Union is planning to shut down universities if the government doesn’t address their concerns.
Zinasu is demanding talks with the Higher and Tertiary Education Ministry over rising tuition fees, which they say are forcing many students to drop out.
Zinasu president, Emmanuel Sitima accused the ministry of refusing to listen to students’ concerns. He said the union requested a meeting to discuss solutions but received no response. The union also held a broader meeting with education stakeholders in February, but the ministry was absent.
Students are asking for a chance to be heard and have their input considered in education policies. They argue that the current fees are unaffordable for many students, who come from low-income families. A Zinasu survey found that some students are forced to defer studies, drop out entirely, or even resort to crime to pay for their education.
This comes after Higher Education Minister, Amon Murwira angered students in March by stating there is no such thing as free education and encouraging students to participate in work-for-fees programmes. However, Zimbabwe’s Constitution guarantees free education for school-age learners.
Zinasu is giving the ministry seven days to respond to their request for dialogue. If talks don’t happen, they will move forward with their plan to close universities and colleges.
Rutendo MazhinduZim Now ReporterThe much-anticipated Mbudzi Interchange project, a significant infrastructure development aimed at easing traffic congestion in Harare, is nearing completion. As of n..
ZimbabweZIFA Congress members snubbed his freebies and now he attacks his rivalsOscar J JekeZim Now WriterTemba Mliswa has come out to move for the elimination of all viable rivals in the Zimbabwe Football ..
ZimbabwePhilemon JambayaZim Now EditorIn a bid to recover outstanding debts, the Bulawayo City Council has taken the drastic measure of cutting off water supplies to 59 schools in the city. This move has sp..
Zimbabwe
Leave Comments