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One of EI’s national affiliates, the Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association (ZIMTA), and children’s rights activists have criticised the use of schools as political campaign venues, pointing out that it contravenes the national Constitution.

Schools, no places for political propaganda

ZIMTA Chief Executive Officer Sifiso Ndlovu said that while several activities would naturally be suspended due to elections, it was not right that the latter should interfere with the school term.

“Schools have become nerve centres used by political parties and this means education officials have to alter timetables. The result is that schools are going to be rushed into exams and teachers and children will be under a lot of pressure,” Ndlovu stressed.

Ndlovu added that while schools should be apolitical venues, once a political party has used a school to hold rallies, there is a risk that this school starts being associated with this party.

As a result of the elections to be held on 31 July, schools will close on 26 July instead of 8 August as initially planned.

“We cannot really say the closure of schools one week earlier is unjustified, because elections are key governance events affecting even the education sector,” he acknowledged. “However, we want people to stop forcing school children to participate in their political events.”

Ndlovu also said there was nothing wrong with increasing children’s awareness about politics as it was included in their social studies syllabus.

EI: Schools, places for teaching and learning

“Schools are, first and foremost, places dedicated to teaching and learning activities,” said EI General Secretary Fred van Leeuwen. “These crucial activities must not be undermined by other ones, even political. However, EI encourages the sense of citizenship in young people, and for them to later participate fully in the democratic life of their communities.”