Zimbabwean teachers in the Western Cape, South Africa, have welcomed the extension of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP) by the South African government.
SA Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi recently told the country’s Parliament that he had extended the ZEPs by another six months to 30 June 2023 after being advised by senior counsel.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean teachers have called for the relaxation of visa requirements and affordable waivers which currently cost R6 000, a figure they consider too high.
Union of Zimbabwe Teachers Western Cape spokesperson Jack Mitsvairo said the extension has brought relief to teachers.
He said the alternative visas disqualified teachers with primary school qualifications and those who taught English, Geography and History. Added Mutsvairo:
A lot of us have been working as teachers here for 15 years. We pay taxes and we are not a drain on the fiscus at all.
Our appeal to the government is to look at professionals who have employment contracts that are more than five years. These people should get permits of some sort.
| IOL