An African Irony!

Who ever thought that Zimbabwe, the biggest flop in Africa, could have an education system that puts South Africa’s (ironically the most developed country on the continent) to shame? I certainly did not…

In his book To the Brink, well renounced public intellectual Xolela Mangcu comments on the state of democracy in South Africa. In the chapter discussing our countries pathetic attempt to negotiate with Zimbabwe and speak out against their backward policy, Xolela points out that under Mugabe’s radical leadership, a highly educated nation emerged. Before gaining independence from British rule, the majority of Zimbabweans were only offered a pitiful primary school education. The state and missions who sponsored these schools were unable to afford the resources pumped into private ‘Group A’ schools, which were reserved for the white elite.

Naturally, extreme political and economic instability have negatively affected this superior system of education, particularly when sanctions were imposed, immobilizing many teachers and students. Mugabe sorrowfully acknowledged this down fall, stating that: ‘Quite a number of children have dropped out of school and it pains us because we developed our system to a level that was admired by many in Africa, if not the world.’

Pertunia Togara, a fellow student and friend of mine, is admired by peers and teachers alike for her quick mind and razor sharp intellect. Her marks in Mathematics and Physics shoot way above the majority. Having moved from Zimbabwe to South Africa in 2009, her incredible ability depicts the still high standards of Zimbabwean education. She very sweetly agreed to answer these questions, which are bound to astonish!

Comparing your experiences in both Zimbabwe and South Africa, where would you regard the education as being better?

Zimbabwe is way better. Most schools have a 100% pass rate.

What main factor makes Zimbabwean schools superior?

The syllabus and exams are up to strict British standards but national exams are a lot harder than British exams. They are very strict, no cell phones or ear sets are allowed, in both public and private schools.

How many schools, private and public did you attend in Zimbabwe?

I attended 2 private schools (Lusitania and Arundel) and five public schools.

Describe the basic structure of the Zimbabwean education system.

Seven years are spent in primary schools and six years on secondary school and then university.

What disciplinary system is used in Zimbabwean schools?

In primary schools you are beaten (but not hurt) with sticks on you hand or bum. When I was 13 years old I forgot to do homework and got 5 beatings for the five sums. In secondary school its just detention.

What makes the teachers in Zimbabwe different to those in South Africa?

Teachers have to put in as much effort as they can and teach their best. If not, they can easily loose their job to another qualified teacher.

Are teachers diligent in preparing lessons, making them interesting and using the time they have to the full?

Yes they put in a lot of effort.

Are teachers willing to help students after schools hours?

Yes, and there are also weekend lessons for diligent pupils.

Do teachers belong to a trade union? How frequently do strikes occur?

Yes, but strikes are not very frequent.

What subjects are compulsory to high school students?

Mathematics, English, Physical Science and Geography. In physics, periodic tables are only allowed in exams and not class tests.

Do students have the option of taking either maths or maths literacy?

No, it is just pure maths. Calculators are only used at high school for accounting and mental work. In primary schools it’s all mental work.

Is state education free for all? If not, how are the poor looked after in terms of education?

No, but there is a program at schools where poor peoples fees are paid by the government but the standard pf education in the rural areas is the some as standards in urban areas.

Overall, are the Zimbabwean youth respectful and studious or are they arrogant and rebellious?

Respectful and studious. They were brought up very strictly.

What types of extra murals are offered in Zimbabwean schools?

A wide variety, mostly common sports and games like tennis, soccer, hockey basketball, swimming, chess and Olympiads.

Are school grounds neat and well kept?

Yes, there are class duties at some schools.

Which typical teenage problems affect Zimbabwean youth most severely?

Depression- not coping with school work. Drugs don’t really exist in Zimbabwe.

How common are teenage pregnancies amongst the youth?

Not common in urban areas but quite common in rural areas.

Are students taught about HIV and AIDS in school? Are they fully aware of the dangers?

Yes.

Do students often talk about politics and current affairs amongst themselves at school? Has this ever resulted in conflict?

One can talk about politics and current affairs that do not include the ‘bad president’. Some people want him to resign and others do not, which can create conflict.

In government schools, what is the typical ratio between the proportions of different races?

Asians : Blacks : White

1 : 10 : 1

In private schools, what is the typical ratio between the different races?

Asians : Black : Whites

1 : 5 : 2

What is the major difference between private and public schools in Zimbabwe?

Private schools have better facilities and resources; they are about three times as expensive as public schools.

After school, do students prefer attending university in South Africa or Zimbabwe?

Most prefer Zimbabwe but some also prefer South Africa. Because most schools have a 100% pass rate, a lot go to study in the UK or USA.

Are students religious? What is the most common religion?

Yes, most schools are headed by churches and Christianity is the most common.

What is the biggest of Zimbabwean schools?

Competition and a lot of work which leads to depression.

Where in Zimbabwe did you stay? How would you describe the overall standard of living of the area?

Greendale, Harare North. High standard of living.

Have you ever witnessed political instability in Zimbabwe, particularly during the last election?

You see it a lot on TV but there was more violence in the rural areas.

What are your best and worst memories of Zimbabwe?

The best was going to the Victoria Falls and the worst was when sanctions were imposed.

How do shops in Zimbabwe compare to those in SA? Are the shelves in Zimbabwe really empty?

There are fewer malls in Zimbabwe and more hypermarkets. Shelves were almost empty when sanctions started.

What is the most common form of public transport in Zimbabwe? Are these services reliable?

Buses and taxis. Public transport is more common than personal cars.

In what way has xenophobia changed Zimbabweans view of South Africa?

They are not very critical and understand that these things happen.