Outline:
Government Takes Action Against Unregistered Schools
The government has issued a clear warning that unregistered schools operating across the country will face closure by January 2026 if they do not comply with legal requirements. This decision comes after a four-month grace period was granted to these institutions to ensure that students are not disrupted during examination periods.
Education Minister Torerayi Moyo addressed this issue in Parliament, emphasizing that establishing an unregistered school is illegal. He explained that the grace period was introduced to prevent abrupt closures that could negatively affect learners. However, he stressed that this leniency would not last indefinitely.
“Come January 2026, those schools that operate illegally and fail to regularise will be closed,” Moyo stated. This message was directed at school administrators who have not yet followed the necessary procedures to register their institutions.
Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda sought further clarification on whether unregistered schools could still register their students for national examinations. In response, Moyo reiterated that all schools must be registered to operate legally. He added that registration must be completed by December 31, highlighting the urgency of the matter.
Addressing the School Deficit
CCC legislator Ellen Shiriyedenga raised concerns about the proliferation of unregistered schools, suggesting it reflects a shortage of formal learning facilities. She mentioned that there is a reported deficit of 3,000 schools in the country. “I believe the mushrooming of these schools is due to the gap and the fact that children do not have to walk long distances,” she said.
Moyo acknowledged the deficit but noted that progress had been made in addressing it. According to him, a study conducted in 2022 revealed the need for 3,000 additional schools. Since then, more than 600 schools have been constructed, with plans to build at least 200 more this year. He also highlighted that school construction efforts are supported by various stakeholders, including churches, corporations, and international partners.
For instance, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has built seven schools this year, while the Johane Marange Church is constructing eight. These collaborations underscore the collective effort to expand access to education.
Concerns About Exploitation
Chiredzi Central legislator Ropafadzo Makumire raised concerns about exploitation in unregulated institutions. He asked what urgent measures the government is taking to prevent such practices. Moyo admitted that some illegal schools operate in secrecy, often only coming to light after complaints.
He cited a recent case where an illegal school was found to have misused examination funds and employed unqualified teachers. Moyo urged Members of Parliament to report any illegal schools they become aware of in their constituencies, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in monitoring these institutions.
Addressing Budgetary Concerns
Other lawmakers questioned whether the government is following through on projects that were budgeted for. Moyo expressed concern over resources that remain unused while communities rely on social welfare. He emphasized the need to restore dignity by enabling communities to produce enough for themselves and the market.
Meanwhile, Zaka South legislator Clemence Chiduwa raised the issue of private schools not teaching local languages. She asked whether this was mandatory or discretionary. Although Moyo did not directly answer, he reaffirmed that government regulatory powers apply to all schools, regardless of their type.
Clarifying Construction Figures
Mbizo legislator Corban Madzivanyika challenged Moyo’s figures, asking whether more than 400 schools had been constructed in 2025 alone. Moyo clarified that between 2022 and 2025, more than 600 schools were built. He reiterated that the goal is to continue expanding educational infrastructure while ensuring compliance with regulations.
Lawmakers generally welcomed the progress in school construction but emphasized the need for a balance between expanding access to education and maintaining high standards. Moyo reiterated that while illegal schools cannot operate indefinitely, abrupt closures would violate the right to education. Therefore, a deadline of January 2026 was set to allow for a smooth transition.