Government Ramps Up School Enrolment Drive for Returnee Children

Government has intensified efforts to ensure children returning from South Africa following recent anti-migrant unrest are swiftly integrated into Zimbabwe’s education system, with authorities determined to prevent disruptions to their learning.

A total of 761 children returned to the country with their parents or guardians between May 28 and June 21, while seven others arrived unaccompanied before being successfully reunited with their families at Beitbridge Border Post.

Speaking during a recent tour of the Government Reception and Support Centre in Beitbridge, Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, said Government was working closely with relevant stakeholders to facilitate the enrolment of affected learners into local schools.

He emphasised that no child should be denied access to education or lose an academic year as a result of the challenges that forced families to return home.

“We are engaging the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to ensure all returning learners are accommodated within the school system and continue with their studies without interruption,” he said.

Minister Nguluvhe revealed that some returning families had reported incidents of bullying and discrimination against migrant children in South African schools during the unrest, circumstances that contributed to their decision to return to Zimbabwe.

Beyond education support, Government is also assessing the welfare needs of affected families, including those who lost employment, businesses and other sources of income during the disturbances. Authorities are exploring various social protection measures aimed at helping returnees rebuild their lives and reintegrate into communities.

The latest figures indicate that 1 755 Zimbabweans have been evacuated from South Africa under Government-assisted arrangements, while a further 24 211 citizens have returned voluntarily since the protests began.

Government says the reception and reintegration programme remains ongoing, with efforts focused on providing immediate humanitarian assistance, family reunification, education access and long-term support to ensure returning citizens are successfully resettled and empowered to rebuild their livelihoods.

The intervention underscores Government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of its citizens and safeguarding the educational future of children affected by the recent developments in South Africa.

By Witness A Phiri