Government Rejects Request for School Contributions to Independence Day Celebrations

The Government has rejected a request for school children in Gweru District to contribute up to US$1 each for the 2025 Independence Day celebrations, clarifying that there is already sufficient funding for the national event.

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education issued a statement confirming that the levy was unauthorized. “The Ministry has secured adequate funding through the national budget for all Independence Day activities, including those planned for Gokwe,” the statement read.

It emphasized that no financial contributions are required from schools, students, parents, or community members for these events.

The Ministry further explained that the directive issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector, asking for contributions, was not valid. Authorities have launched an investigation into the matter, and the official responsible will be required to justify their actions, which breach established procedures.

The Ministry instructed all school heads, teachers, and stakeholders to disregard the request, stating, “No payments should be solicited or collected for this purpose.” Individuals or institutions pressured to contribute are urged to report the issue directly to the Ministry.

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