Rusununguko High School’s Surprise Top-Up Fee Sparks Parent Concerns

Rusununguko High School, operated by ZANU PF, is demanding top-up fees of up to US$120 per child, causing outrage among parents for the sudden fee increase without prior consultation.

The school, located near Goromonzi, initially asked for an additional US$30 for students who had fully paid the term’s US$605 fees in US dollars, according to ZimLive.

For parents who paid a portion in local currency (ZiG), a higher US$120 top-up was requested, reflecting an urgent need to cover unexpected expenses due to the ZiG’s steep devaluation.

School CEO Maone Veremu cited the economic instability and diesel generator costs as reasons, with the generator consuming 140 liters daily due to frequent power outages, affecting the school’s operating budget.

Veremu assured that this decision was sanctioned by both the District Schools Council (DSC) and school authorities, expecting parents to meet the top-up by October 26, 2024, to ensure continuous school operation.

Yet, after backlash from parents, Rusununguko High School announced a uniform fee adjustment, lowering the top-up to US$30 for all students, a relief that brought mixed reactions among parents.

In an official communication, ZimFep, the managing authority for Rusununguko, confirmed that the adjusted top-up would balance the needs of parents and operational requirements without compromising student welfare.

However, some parents remain skeptical about the fee reduction, questioning the lack of transparency and the sudden decision shift, which leaves lingering doubts about future financial stability.

The unexpected fee hike underscores broader challenges within Zimbabwe’s educational institutions, many of which are struggling to cope with fluctuating currency values and increasing operational costs.

The Zim Bulletin