War Veterans Disgruntled as Government Fails to Pay Children’s Tuition Fees for Two Semesters
War Veterans have voiced their displeasure about the government’s refusal to cover their children’s tuition for the previous two semesters.
In recognition of their involvement in the armed conflict, the government provides extra advantages, including college expenses, to children of former warriors.
Edward Dube, secretary-general of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), asserted that the government was overdue on its payments.
With institutions starting classes this week, Dube pleaded with the government to act quickly to resolve the issue.
On Monday, classes at the University of Zimbabwe resumed.
“The ZNLWVA emphasises that this situation constitutes a failure on the part of the government to fulfil its obligations as outlined in the statutory provisions of the Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Act (Chapter 17:12) of 2020,” Dube said in the statement.
“The current scenario is untenable, as university learners are being denied access to essential services such as registration and accommodation.
ALSO READ: Accountant, Accomplice Defraud War Vets Ministry of $268M
“Consequently, students find themselves in a state of dilemma and uncertainty, especially since some universities are scheduled to commence classes this week.”
In order to “avoid learners being subjected to needless bureaucratic hurdles, ultimately impeding their educational progress,” he asked the government to give the issue top priority.
Dube urged the government to adhere to Sustainable Development Goal 4, which asks for the provision of high-quality, inclusive, and egalitarian education as well as opportunities for lifelong learning for everyone.
“The association urges the authorities to uphold the principles enshrined in this goal and address the current challenges faced by the students,” he said.
“The ZNLWVA calls upon the concerned authorities to give immediate attention to this matter, recognising the importance of providing equitable access to education for the children of war veterans.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these students are not deprived of their right to education due to administrative delays.”
Deputy minister monica mavhunga encourages former freedom fighters to engage ministry for comments.
“We have not received such communication from them. They should come to our offices and air their grievances so that they can be addressed,” she said.
Dube informed Newsday that despite approaching the ministry since last year, they have yet to achieve success.
“The association is seized with engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure that learners are not prejudiced to by the bureaucracy taking place,”said Dube.
