By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
In a decisive move to tackle the growing issue of unregistered and substandard schools, the Government has issued a firm warning: the days of illegal educational institutions are numbered.
This comes amid mounting concern from legislators and education stakeholders over the rapid rise of these schools, many of which are accused of exploiting desperate parents and offering poor-quality education.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo sounded the alarm during a recent Senate Question and Answer session, revealing that the Cabinet is preparing to issue a directive for the nationwide closure of all unregistered schools.
“It is illegal for any unregistered school to operate,” Minister Moyo stated. “Parents must ensure they verify a school’s registration status before enrolling their children. We cannot support institutions that flout the law and weaken our education system.”
The warning came in response to a question from Senator Chief Chikwaka, who highlighted the proliferation of unregulated schools and colleges.
These institutions, he noted, often lack basic infrastructure, fail to meet academic standards, and prey on families seeking better prospects for their children.
While the Government’s stance is firm, Minister Moyo emphasized that closures will not be immediate. Instead, schools operating illegally will be given a grace period—likely around four months—to meet the minimum registration and operational standards required by law.
“One day, and very soon, the Government through Cabinet will order all illegal schools to close,” Moyo explained.
“But we’ll offer a deadline first, allowing institutions time to regularize, upgrade facilities, and address health and safety concerns.”
This phased approach reflects the Government’s intent to prioritize learners’ welfare while ensuring compliance with educational regulations.
Minister Moyo also expressed deep concern over reports that some unregistered schools have been collecting examination fees but failing to remit them to the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC), leaving students unable to sit for crucial exams.
“These schools are deceiving parents,” he said. “They collect ZIMSEC fees but don’t forward the payments, leaving learners stranded. This is a serious issue that must be urgently addressed.”
The Minister’s remarks serve as a clear warning to parents, urging them to thoroughly vet any school before entrusting it with their children’s education.
“Parents have a vital role to play in this fight against illegal schools,” Moyo stressed.
Senator Chief Chikwaka echoed the call for action, emphasizing the need to protect children’s right to quality education.
“Our children deserve to learn in safe, properly regulated environments,” the Senator said. “We cannot allow rogue institutions to continue exploiting families and jeopardizing the future of our youth.”
As the Government steps up efforts to regulate the education sector, the message is unambiguous: only schools that meet required standards will be allowed to operate. The anticipated Cabinet directive is expected to set a new benchmark for accountability and quality assurance in Zimbabwe’s education system.
For parents, educators, and policymakers, this is a critical moment to reaffirm support for legitimate, registered institutions.
The Government’s crackdown marks a significant step toward safeguarding the integrity of education in the country and ensuring that every child has access to safe, high-quality learning.
In the months ahead, the spotlight will be on how unregistered schools respond to the ultimatum—and whether they can rise to meet the standards necessary to continue serving learners.
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