By Staff Reporter
THE government has distanced itself from a directive ordering schools in Gweru district to observe mandatory civic days to raise funds for Independence Day celebrations.
This follows a letter that went viral on Tuesday, instructing all schools in Gweru district to hold civic days to raise funds for purchasing regalia, food, fuel, and covering other unforeseen costs at the Independence commemorations in Gokwe, Nembudziya, next month.
The letter was addressed to the Provincial Education Director from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Gweru District Schools Inspector Mahlokozera.
In a statement Wednesday, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education denied issuing the directive adding that it had launched an immediate inquiry into the matter, pledging disciplinary action against those responsible for the unauthorized instruction.
“The Ministry has initiated an immediate inquiry into the matter.
“The official responsible for the directive will be required to provide a full explanation for their actions, which contravene established protocols.
“Disciplinary measures will be taken as appropriate,” the statement read.
The Ministry also said that the government has already allocated sufficient funds for the celebrations and that no financial contributions are required from schools or parents.
Additionally, it urged teachers and school heads to ignore the directive.
“The Ministry has already secured adequate funding through the national budget for all Independence Day commemorations, including planned activities in Gokwe.
“There is no requirement for schools, learners, parents, or community members to contribute financially to these events,” the statement added.