BY BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE – Ministry of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo has expressed condolences to the family of a Form II pupil who tragically took her own life after being sent home for unpaid school fees.
Minister Nxumalo has warned teachers against sending pupils home concerning financial challenges, and has stated that disciplinary action will be taken against those who do so.
During a press conference today at the Ministry’s offices, the Minister stated that his Ministry did not condone the actions of teachers who send pupils home due to unpaid fees, as it is not an effective way to resolve the issue. He stressed that teachers should communicate with parents and find a solution that allowed pupils to remain in school. Nxumalo highlighted that the welfare of students was the responsibility of the school and that any concerns should be addressed through proper channels.
The Minister stated that pupils had a right to an education free from interruption, and it was tragic when teachers disregarded the rules set by Government. He added that teachers were representatives of the King and should act accordingly, working with Regional Education Officers (REOs) to find solutions to financial difficulties. He emphasised that the priority should be to keep pupils in school and to ensure that their educational needs were met. The Minister expressed his disappointment that some pupils supported by the social welfare system had also been sent home due to unpaid fees, even though Government had paid a portion of the fees. He warned that teachers who engaged in this practice would face disciplinary action. He emphasised that pupils who are in need should be protected and supported, and that teachers should not be taking punitive measures against them.
