By Dr Takavafira
Covid 19 cases have reached unprecedented levels in Zimbabwe. Several families have lost their loved ones. As a country we have lost prominent leaders of repute. *As Ptuz* we would like to express our heartfelt condolences to several families who have lost relatives and the country at large.
We, however, note with regret the lackadaisical approach taken in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education over covid 19 pandemic as if teachers are of no account or immune to covid 19. The writing of 2020 examinations has continued unabated as if all is well in schools.
We urge gvt and Ministry to seriously consider a broad based plan to save lives of teachers and pupils. Currently, plans are at an advanced stage for marking ‘O’ and ‘A’ level Zimsec examinations. Several teachers have been called for coordination of various subjects. This would be followed by conglomeration of many teachers from different areas at various centres across the country. If govt and Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education do not see anything wrong with this conglomeration, then we wonder if leaders take the new wave of covid pandemic seriously.
Zimsec must mellow down to a more constructive approach that resonate with covid pandemic rather than adopting an intransigent and irresponsible approach that does not prioritise the health and safety of teachers and closeted by myopic desire to see exams marked at any human cost.
To the teachers our message is that God protects those who can prioritise their health and safety. We wonder why many teachers have turned up for grade 7 marking, are now turning up for coordination and would turn up for ‘O’ and ‘A’ level marking at a time covid is running riot in Zimbabwe. Use your brains rather than your stomach. Life is far more important than 30 pieces of silver. Zimsec does not care for any markers who test positive and simply fires them and hire other markers. Teachers can therefore report for further marking at their own peril. To be forewarned is to be forearmed.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (Ptuz President)
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