The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has invoked the principle of “no work no pay” for teachers who have not reported for duty when the 2022 first term started on the 7th of February 2022 citing incapacitation.
In a letter addressed to all Provincial Education Directors (PEDs), District School Inspectors (DSIs) and heads of primary and secondary schools, dated 8th of February 2022, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education permanent secretary Tumisang Thabela said teachers who did not report for duty when schools opened yesterday are depriving children of their right to education.
The letter, which was copied to Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Permanent Secretary for Public Service Commission, Chief Director Human Resources Development A/Chief Director Primary, Secondary and Non-Formal Education, read:
RE: FAILURE TO REPORT FOR DUTY BY SOME OFFICIALS
It has come to the attention of the Permanent Secretary of Primary and Secondary Education that some officials did not report for duty when schools opened on 7 February 2022 as per the 2022 school calendar.
This unwarranted conduct deprived learners of their right to education as enshrined in Section 75 and 81 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
Accordingly, Heads of Offices should take urgent disciplinary action against any of their members who obstructed the opening of schools and deprived learners of their constitutional right.
Where necessary, Heads of Offices should charge and suspend such members at the school, district, provincial or national level and ensure that all due processes are followed as per Public Service Regulations 2000 as amended.
Provincial Education Directors are hereby directed to provide a daily update on progress disciplinary cases in their respective provinces.
Officials are reminded that the principle of “no work no pay” shall apply where members failed to render their services.
Please be guided accordingly.