The Zambian government has issued a stern warning to all school headteachers and administrations, reiterating that no pupil or parent should be asked to pay for any school-related expenses in government schools. This warning comes as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to its free education policy.
During a press briefing in Lusaka, Ministry of Education spokesperson Kunda Mando confirmed that the government has taken full responsibility for covering all school expenses, including books and uniforms for students who cannot afford them. Mando emphasized that schools found charging pupils for aptitude tests or any other fees will face disciplinary action.
“The Ministry of Education has taken up the amount of money, paying on behalf of all Zambians through the free education policy. We are not expecting any school to charge any pupil with anything. Every learner has the right to free education,” Mando stated. She further highlighted the government’s social protection program, which ensures that vulnerable students who cannot afford uniforms and other essentials are supported.
To reinforce this policy, the government has allocated over K700 million in school grants for the first term of 2025, which have already been disbursed to over 13,000 schools across the country. Mando revealed that the funds, which were signed off last week, reached school accounts as of yesterday. Of this amount, over K300 million has been allocated to secondary schools, while K200 million has been allocated to primary schools. Additionally, Colleges of Education and District Education Boards have been allocated K200 million.
The government’s intervention aims to ensure that every learner has access to quality education without the burden of financial costs. Mando’s statement makes it clear that the government is committed to upholding its free education policy, and no school is allowed to deviate from this directive.
She also stressed that schools charging for items such as aptitude tests or other compulsory expenses would face serious consequences, reinforcing the government’s stance on providing equal educational opportunities for all students regardless of their financial background.
With the allocation of funds already in place, it is expected that the grants will alleviate financial pressure on schools and ensure that they continue to function smoothly, providing resources to support both students and teachers. This move aligns with the government’s broader goal of improving education standards while promoting inclusivity.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Education’s message is clear: no student in Zambia should be turned away from school or charged fees under the free education policy. The government’s robust investment in education is a step towards securing a better future for the country’s children, ensuring that education remains accessible to all.
