As the 2025 school calendar officially begins on Tuesday, January 14, parents and guardians across Zimbabwe are navigating the challenging terrain of preparing their children for the new academic year. The journey has been particularly daunting for those with children transitioning to new levels of education, such as from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade One or from Grade Seven into secondary school. These milestones often come with significant expenses, including new uniforms, stationery, and other essentials like trunks, which are proving costly for many families.
A Busy Week in Urban Markets
Urban centers like Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, and Chinhoyi have been abuzz with back-to-school shoppers. Parents and guardians scoured the streets and markets for necessities, purchasing trunks, book covers, and stationery. Both reputable retailers and informal vendors set up shop, offering varying prices and qualities to meet the demand.
The bustling markets reflect the urgency and pressure faced by many families, as the back-to-school season has become an uphill battle amid Zimbabwe’s economic challenges.
The Financial Burden
For many parents, the rising costs of education are taking a toll. A snap survey conducted by Zimbo LIVE TV revealed widespread concerns about:
- Tuition Fees and Levies: Many schools are charging fees in United States dollars, adding a heavy burden to families already struggling with high unemployment and stagnant incomes.
- Uniform Prices: School uniforms, available at most retailers, have become increasingly expensive, leaving families to seek alternatives or make difficult financial decisions.
- Mandatory Purchases: Some schools require parents to buy items directly from the institutions, often at significantly inflated prices, further exacerbating financial strain.
One parent from Harare shared, “Every year it seems like the costs just keep going up. Even basic items like uniforms and stationery are now luxury items for many families.”
Support from the Diaspora
Many families are leaning on support from relatives and friends in the diaspora to cover these rising costs. Services like WorldRemit have become a lifeline for countless Zimbabweans, offering a reliable and fast way to receive money for tuition fees, school supplies, and other back-to-school expenses.
A parent from Bulawayo remarked, “Without the help of my brother abroad and the convenience of platforms like WorldRemit, I don’t know how I would have managed to prepare my kids for school this year.”
Coping Amid Economic Challenges
The economic challenges in Zimbabwe have left families juggling multiple priorities. For those with children progressing to new education levels, the financial strain is even more pronounced. The need for new uniforms, stationery, and other educational tools is non-negotiable, but finding affordable options is increasingly difficult.
Navigating the Back-to-School Rush
As schools reopen, here are a few tips for parents and guardians trying to manage the financial pressures:
- Compare Prices: Shop around and compare prices from different vendors, including informal markets, to find the best deals.
- Buy in Bulk: For families with multiple school-going children, buying stationery and other supplies in bulk can save money.
- Second-Hand Options: Explore second-hand uniforms or trunks, which can be a cost-effective alternative to buying new.
- Diaspora Support: Consider reaching out to family or friends abroad who might be able to assist through money transfer platforms like WorldRemit.
Looking Ahead
The start of the school year is a significant milestone for students and families alike. While the financial challenges remain steep, parents’ resilience and determination to prioritize their children’s education are inspiring. With the help of diaspora support and community efforts, the hope is that families can overcome these hurdles and ensure their children have a smooth transition into the 2025 school year.
For more updates and tips on navigating the academic year, stay tuned to Zimbo LIVE TV.
