The Zimbabwean government has issued a directive prohibiting schools from conducting holiday classes. This decision follows requests from certain schools seeking permission to hold vacation lessons, prompting concerns among education authorities.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education received requests from several schools seeking approval to conduct holiday classes for their students.
However, after thorough consideration and consultations with stakeholders in the education sector, the government has opted to disallow such activities.
Mr. Moses Mhike, the Permanent Secretary of Primary and Secondary Education, affirmed the government’s position in a statement.
He stressed the importance of granting students adequate time to relax during school holidays, noting that they already have sufficient opportunities to study throughout the academic term.
The ban on holiday classes underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a balanced approach to education, with a focus on prioritizing students’ well-being and mental health.
It also aims to ensure that learners enjoy a meaningful break from academic pressures, allowing them to engage in recreational activities conducive to their overall development.
ALSO READ : $1.5 Trillion Debt Plagues Harare City Council
This directive is expected to have a significant impact on schools and educational institutions that traditionally offer holiday classes as part of their academic support programs.
It reflects a shift in educational policies aimed at promoting a more holistic and student-centered approach to learning.
As the new directive comes into effect, schools and educators are urged to comply with the government’s decision and concentrate on providing a conducive learning environment during regular school terms, while acknowledging students’ need for rest and relaxation during holidays.
Mr. Mhike acknowledged the requests received from some sectors to allow vacation school for examination classes of Grade 7, Ordinary, and Advanced levels during the April holiday.
However, after extensive consultations and considering an undisturbed teaching and learning program during the term, the authority is not granted for schools to facilitate a vacation school during the April school holidays for Grade 7, Ordinary, and Advanced Level candidates, as well as for non-examination classes.
Emphasizing the importance of allowing students to rest during the upcoming holiday break, scheduled to begin on Wednesday and end on 6th May, Mr. Mhike commended stakeholders in the education sector for their efforts in ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted term for students.
“The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education acknowledges the seamless conduct of teaching and learning in all schools during the first term of the year, fully embracing the 56 days set aside for that process.
“The dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to educating and nurturing the young minds of our pupils have not gone unnoticed.
The creativity and passion brought about by all our teachers in the classrooms that made learning engaging, interactive, and inspiring for our pupils are commended, and the Ministry remains grateful,” noted Mr. Mhike.
