The Public Service Commission (PSC) is organising a Job Fair in Harare next week to offer job opportunities in the government to recent graduates. The fair aims to recruit hundreds of graduates to work in various government ministries. 
The maiden PSC Job Fair in Harare, which will be held next week on Wednesday, December 6, seeks to recruit hundreds of recent graduates to work in Government ministries, and the Fair will be later decentralised to other provinces.
The fair is targeting recent graduates aged between 19 and 30, the PSC notified of the Fair in their promotional materials. Said the commission:
<blockquote>
PSC is very alive to the existence and importance of all other provinces of our great nation, and in true letter and spirit of devolution and decentralisation will be having Job Fairs in other provinces as well.
 The Harare Job Fair is just but the first of many Job Fairs.
</blockquote>
If you are a recent graduate between the ages of 19 and 30 and you are interested in this event, remember the following details: 
Target:
<ul>
<li>Recent graduates</li>
<li>Age range: 19-30 years old</li>
</ul>
What’s happening:
<ul>
<li>Government ministries recruiting recent graduates</li>
</ul>
Date and Time:
<ul>
<li>Date: 6th December 2023</li>
<li>Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM</li>
</ul>
Venue:
<ul>
<li>Heritage Village, Liberation City, Harare</li>
<li>Address: Cnr Solomon Mujuru (formerly Kirkman Road) and 11th Avenue, next to Tynwald Primary School</li>
</ul>
Items to bring:
<ul>
<li>ID</li>
<li>Birth certificate</li>
<li>Academic certificates (certified copies and originals)</li>
<li>CV/Resume</li>
</ul>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

ATTEND: PSC Organising Job Fair In Harare For Government Job Opportunities To Recent Graduates

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has approved the appointment of Mr Lawrence David Mavima as Commissioner of the Public Service Commission (PSC).
In a statement seen by Pindula News, Mr <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Martin_Rushwaya/">Martin Rushwaya</a>, the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet said the appointment was in terms of Section 202(1) (b) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe as read with Section 320 of the same Constitution. Read the statement dated 03 November 2023:
<blockquote>
Mr Mavima is a holder of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. He has vast experience in the international and private sector where he started as a Customer Service Manager for Allstate Insurance Company in Los Angeles from 1978 to 1981. He was appointed as a Group Management Accountant for Wiroplastics Division in 1981 and was later promoted to the post of General Manager in the same Company.
He held various positions at SEDCO and at Baxter International in California, USA.
In September 2018, His Excellency the President appointed Mr Mavima as a Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Midlands Province. Mr Mavima brings with him vast experience in monitoring and evaluation of Government projects and programs. His work in the province also gave him the opportunity to work with both the Rural and Urban Authorities. This experience will assist the Commissioner’s work in supporting His Excellency’s Vision 2030 by enhancing the implementation of NDS1 through Devolution, Industrulisation and Mordenisation. 
Mr Lawrence David Mavima’s appointment is with immediate effect.
</blockquote>
In another announcement, Rushwaya mentioned that the President, under Section 205[1] of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, had appointed Dr. Benson Martins Dube as the Secretary to Vice President Kembo C.D. Mohadi’s Office in the Office of the President and Cabinet. The appointment is effective immediately.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

President Mnangagwa Appoints Lawrence Mavima As Commissioner Of The PSC

The Zimbabwean government is planning to offer a new salary package to civil servants to help them cope with the increasing cost of living. 
The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC), which represents both the government and workers’ representatives, is set to meet this week to discuss the issue.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) leaders recently met with President Mnangagwa, who assured them that the government is committed to addressing their concerns. The Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima/">Paul Mavima</a>, stated that the new pay offer will be presented once internal consultations are completed. He told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-salary-offer-for-civil-servants">The Sunday Mail</a>:
<blockquote>
We are currently doing consultations and working on a comprehensive framework, which is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
Once we come up with the framework and clear indicators of what Government can offer, we then convene the NJNC, which 
will be a discussion between the representatives of the workers and the Government team.
We were hoping we will be done by this week (last week) and once we are done, we will definitely call for a NJNC meeting.
</blockquote>
The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development is said to be working on a comprehensive framework that will provide a clear roadmap for the government’s remuneration and non-monetary incentives. The government is already offering its workers various allowances of up to US$250 per month in foreign currency.
The NJNC meeting is expected to allow representatives from both parties to discuss a range of issues related to the welfare of public sector workers and the erosion of the value of wages.
After meeting with the President, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) is hopeful for an improved salary offer. ZCPSTU secretary-general Mr David Dzatsunga said they discussed the welfare of public sector workers and the erosion of wages. The President assured them that measures are being taken to find a lasting solution.
For the past four years, the government has been in a disagreement with workers over poor salaries and working conditions. The workers are asking for the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries, which were around US$540 and for their salaries to be paid in US dollars due to the rapid depreciation of the Zimbabwean dollar. The government has been unable to meet these demands, citing financial incapability.
<h3><a href="http://pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwean Govt To Offer New Salary Package To Civil Servants

The Zimbabwean government has reiterated that civil servants are banned from holding any political party office. A “confidential” memo dated May 17, 2023, was sent out by the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Public Service Commission</a>, which regulates the behavior of civil servants, outlining conduct with regards to political activities in government.
The memo emphasized that no member of the civil service may act in a partisan manner, further the interests of any political party or cause, prejudice the lawful interests of any political party or cause, or violate the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">fundamental rights</a> or freedoms of any person. Moreover, members of the civil service must not hold any political party office.
The circular provided a procedure that members of the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Public Service</a> who intend to stand as candidates for parliamentary and <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">local government elections</a> must follow. They should submit a letter notifying the commission of their intentions and will be deemed to have resigned from the Public Service once their nomination is accepted.
The memo also stated that former members who lost elections could be reappointed provided a suitable post exists, and the interpretation of the circular rests with the Public Service. Heads of ministries were directed to ensure that every member has sight of the memo by May 30, 2023. This new memo replaces all previous circulars dealing with the participation of members in <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">harmonized elections</a>. Reads the memo:
<blockquote>
<h3>PARTICIPATION IN POLITICAL ACTIVITIES BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE</h3>
1.1 The conduct of members of the Public Service with regards to Participation in political activities in government by Section 200 (3) and (4) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 20) Act, 2013. Section 200 (3) and (4) provides as follows;
No member of the Civil Service may, in the exercise of their functions – (a) act in a partisan manner; (b) further the interests of any political party or cause; (c) prejudice the lawful interests of any political party or cause; or (d) violate the fundamental rights or freedoms of any person. Members of the Civil Service must not be office-bearers of any political party.
<h3>2.0 PROCEDURE FOR PARTICIPATION IN POLITICAL ACTIVITIES BY MEMBER</h3>
2.1 This Circular serves to provide the ‘procedure to be followed by members of the Public Service who intend to stand as candidates for Parliamentary and Local Government elections.
2.2 A member of the Public Service who wishes to become a candidate for election to a local authority or has been nominated AS a candidate by a political party, political organisation or political movement or declares himself/herself as a candidate for election to Parliament or local authority shall submit, in writing a letter notifying the Commission of his/her intentions. The member shall be deemed to have resigned from the Public Service with effect from the date that the authority is granted for those seeking election to a local authority.
2.3 A member of the Public Service who wishes to seek election to Parliament shall be deemed to have resigned from the Public Service with effect from the date of acceptance of his nomination by the nomination court.
2.4 A member who submits his/her candidature to a duly constituted Nomination Court and accepted as a candidate for election to Parliament or Local Authority with or without satisfying the procedure outlined in paragraphs 2.2 above shall be deemed to have resigned or retired from the Public Service with immediate effect.
2.5 A person who has ceased to be a member A the Public Service and who fails to secure or abandons his/her candidature or fails to be elected to Parliament or local authority, may apply in writing to the Commission for reappointment within 30 days after the holding of elections. ‘This only applies in cases that the former member shall not have filed an application to have results of the elections reviewed by a court of law.
2.4 A member, who has challenged the results in an Electoral Court, may only apply for reappointment to the Public Service alter finalisation of the petition.
2.5 Former members who have lost in elections may be reappointed provided a suitable post exists and subject to such tents and conditions as Commission may to an office or post in the Public Service.-
2.6 This Circular cancels and replaces all previous Circulars dealing participation of members in harmonised elections.
2.7 Heads of Ministries are being directed to obtain proof by not later than 30 May 2023 showing that eve, member has had sight of this Circular.
3.0 The interpretation of this Circular rests with the Public Service.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe Reiterates Civil Servants Are Banned From Holding Political Office

The government of Zimbabwe has implemented new regulations that restrict the regrading and promotion of its workers, as it seeks to reduce its wage bill.
In the civil service, higher grades correspond to higher salaries; however, the regrading process has become cumbersome, causing many government workers to go up to four years without being regraded, despite having acquired higher qualifications.
Workers’ representatives have reported that thousands of workers have remained in the same grades, despite applying for higher grades.
In a circular dated March 13, 2023, the Public Service Commission’s head of human capital and development, Walter Mpandawana, outlined additional documentation required for one to be upgraded. He said:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that, when submitting candidates for regarding on the basis of attaining higher qualifications of members, or when notifying the commission of the attainment of higher or additional qualification of members, the ministries should attach a Manpower  Development leave approval or proof of declaration of studies for members who did their studies on their personal time.
You should also verify the authenticity of the certificates and stamp the copies confirming sight of the copies of the original document.
</blockquote>
According to workers, some government officials are deliberately slowing down the regrading process, causing some workers to give up. A teacher who spoke to NewsDay on condition of anonymity said they graduated in 2018 with a first degree and later obtained a second degree but have not been regraded. The teacher claimed that the government is providing frivolous excuses for the delay. Although the teacher has proof of their education, the additional requirements for confirmation of permission to write exams are with district archives, which cannot produce the documents. Without these requirements, the teacher cannot be regraded. 
Enock Dongo, the secretary-general of the Zimbabwe Nurses Association, has expressed concern about the government’s failure to upgrade workers after they acquire higher qualifications. He said that the lack of incentives for workers who have attained higher qualifications is demotivating. This affects job efficiency because workers should be rewarded based on their skills and qualifications. In other countries, workers are rewarded based on their expertise and qualifications. Dongo also noted that failing to reward workers properly has led to an increase in emigration, which is not a positive development if Zimbabwe is to achieve its goals for 2030.
Goodwill Taderera, the secretary-general of the Zimbabwe Teachers Association, stated that the government has established procedures and requirements for workers to be regraded after obtaining higher qualifications. He urged members to comply with these requirements. However, if there is a deliberate attempt to obstruct the regrading process, Taderera encouraged members to report the issue to the association. The association will then engage with the government to address the issue.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Zimbabwe Freezes Worker Promotion To Cut Wage Bill

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Civil_Service_Commission">Public Service Commission (PSC)</a> has reactivated the promotion (advancement) policy to encourage a culture of high performance that is results-oriented.
The advancement system has been present before but was suspended in 2013. 
In a statement, the PSC said the reactivated promotion policy entails the movement of a member from one grade to another and is a result of the job evaluation exercise adopted in 2003. Said the PSC in a statement:
<blockquote>
Jobs are evaluated based on predetermined criteria. The system analyses decision-making in job tasks and categories jobs into six groups. Every advancement comes with an upward salary movement except for members who are on the ceiling of their advancements grades. 
In order to qualify for the promotion, one should be in the relevant grade immediately below the promotional grade. Such a grade is reached through events brought about by performance advancements.
</blockquote>
The PSC had consultations with the National Joint Negotiation Council with workers’ representatives where they resolved to reactivate the system. 
<h2>The Commission highlighted that:</h2>
<blockquote>
1). there is a promotion probation period of one year where a member’s performance will be assessed and after successfully completing this period, the member will retain the position to which they would have been promoted.
2). members of the PSC who wish to be considered for advancements must not be undergoing any disciplinary cases within the workplace. They will only be considered after the determination of the disciplinary case. 
3). members who had reached the ceiling of their advancement grades – the highest salary step of the highest advancement grade – are awarded a once-off performance allowance. The allowance is equivalent to the difference between the maximum annual salary step of that grade and the annual salary step of that grade immediately below the maximum step. 
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

PSC Has Reactivated The Promotion Policy

The Zimbabwean government has said it has resolved to extend allowances to pay school fees for children of teaching parents in both primary and secondary schools.
In a statement seen by Pindula News, the Public Service Commission (PSC) said the facility caters for up to a maximum of three [3] biological children of teaching parents. Reads the statement dated 20 January 2023:
<blockquote>
<h2>Payment of School Fees Allowances for Children of Teaching Parents</h2>
Following engagement in the context of the Joint National Negotiating Council in 2022, Government resolved to extend allowances to pay school fees for children of teaching parents in both primary and secondary schools. The School Fees Allowance facility caters for up to a maximum of three [3] biological children of teaching parents.
After a conscientious process of working out the modalities of operationalising the scheme, Government is pleased to announce that its intended support to teachers in putting their children through school is now well underway.
The Public Service Commission wishes to announce that as at 4th January 2023, the Salary Service Bureau had processed the payment of ZWL$ 827 847 387.81 for 41 194 [forty-one thousand one hundred and ninety-four] children of 18 794 [eighteen thousand, seven hundred and ninety-four] teaching parents under the School Fees Allowance.
Going forward, the Public Service Commission (PSC) wishes to announce the dates by which time the applications for the 2023 school fees allowance reach the PSC District, Provincial or Head Office as follows: –
• 1st term by 30/01/2023 
• 2nd term by 15/05/2023 
• 3rd term by 11/09/2023
The onus lies with the applicants to ensure that their applications are submitted by the dates indicated. Late applications will not be processed.
<h2>A complete application must include the following documents:-</h2>
• Completed Application Form 
• Certified copy of National Identity Card of the Applicant 
• Certified copy/copies of Birth Certificate(s) for biological child/children 
• Proof of Enrolment of child/children from the school they attend Government remains committed to ensuring the well-being of all civil servants.
Dr Tsitsi R. Choruma Secretary, Service Commissions
</blockquote>
<h2>More Pindula News</h2>

Full Text: Govt Resolves To Pay School Fees For Teachers' Children

The government has stopped subsidising adult dependants on <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Premier_Service_Medical_Aid_Society">Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) Medical Aid</a> with immediate effect to lessen the burden on Treasury and PSMAS.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Civil_Service_Commission">Public Service Commission</a> Secretary Dr Tsitsi Choruma said policyholders who wish to keep adult dependants on the medical cover will have to shoulder the cost. Choruma said in a Press statement on Saturday: 
<blockquote>
In view of the aspirations to have all public servants accessing medical coverage through PSMAS, the Government has made a decision that adult dependants shall not be subsidised by the subscriptions made by the Government for its public workers’ core beneficiaries. 
As such, all members of the public service who wish to add other beneficiaries to their plans would need to pay PSMAS-defined market rates for them.
The addition of adult dependants onto one’s plan would require that a member notifies PSMAS directly and ensures that they make the necessary arrangements for the proposed additions.
It must be noted that the arrangements to finance extra dependants is the responsibility of the member and this will be done by directly signing up with PSMAS.
The Public Service Commission hopes that members will understand the concerns stated above, but more importantly, also note that this decision will enable the availability of resources to largely benefit the members of the public service,” she said.
This change is meant to lessen the financial burden on the Government and PSMAS, while ensuring the viability of the medical cover.
This enhances value for the members and ensures the sustainability of the provision of services offered by PSMAS to its clients. The Government of Zimbabwe remains committed to guaranteeing that public servants have access to good health and medical care.
</blockquote>
Dr Choruma said the decision to stop paying subsidies for adult beneficiaries was also occasioned by an unprecedented increase in the number of these beneficiaries added by PSMAS members.
She added that PSC will only deduct subscriptions through the Salary Service Bureau (SSB) upon receipt of a clear instruction signed off by the member. Members are also free to pay directly to PSMAS.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt Stops Subsidising Adult Dependants On PSMAS Medical Aid With Immediate Effect

The Public Service Commission has announced a new pay structure for civil servants noting that they will be paid according to their academic qualifications, experience and seniority starting this month.
The government is apparently reactivating a policy that promotes the advancement of public workers which was abandoned in 2012.
The advancement policy will start to be operational this month, <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/new-pay-structure-for-civil-servants/">The Sunday News</a> reported citing a statement issued on Friday, by Public Service Commission (PSC) Secretary Dr Tsitsi Choruma. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Following engagements in the context of the National Joint Negotiating Council, Government resolved to reactivate the advancement of all civil servants in terms of the applicable advancement procedures. Accordingly, the Public Service Commission embarked on and finalised the placement of all civil servants in their respective grades by the end of December 2022. All civil servants will, therefore, be paid the salaries that reflect their advancement and placement within their grades with effect from January 2023.
In pursuit of the foregoing, all the Heads of Line Ministries are implored to submit all relevant higher qualifications obtained by civil servants under their ministries and departments to the Public Service Commission to facilitate the completion of the advancement exercise by 31st March 2023.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) president Mr Richard Gundani said the exercise is an issue of fundamental rights enshrined in the conditions of service.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Dr Takavafira Zhou said the review of grades would see civil servants getting what they deserved. He said:
<blockquote>
If one is a headmaster, deputy or senior teacher, one should have something to show for that. What we only urge the Government is to walk the talk. 
</blockquote>
He said that while the intention is good, they usually disagree with the government on the implementation plan. He said the new police must be clear among the stakeholders.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Public Service Commission Announces New Pay Structure For Civil Servants

Civil servants have criticised the government’s decision to pay the annual bonuses based on workers’ performances with some saying the government is looking for a scapegoat to withhold their 13th cheque.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has since issued a circular to line ministries stating that <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">future end-of-year bonuses will be performance-based – starting this year.</a>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">Govt Says Bonus Will ONLY Be Paid Based On Performance Appraisal Reports</a></li>
</ul>
Zimbabwe’s 350 000 civil servants have been paid a blanket end-of-year bonus all along. 
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/workers-union-criticises-govt-for-adopting-performance-based-bonus-system/">Unions</a> have, however, protested, saying this was targeted at their members for going on strike to demand better salaries.
Earlier this year, the government introduced a “no-work no-pay” policy after civil servants downed tools protesting poor salaries and working conditions.
A number of teachers were also suspended.
Government workers have been engaged in periodic protests to demand the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said public workers deserved the 13th cheque.
Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) president Enock Dongo appealed to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to intervene and ensure all State workers receive bonuses. He told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
It is not fair for government to come at the 11th hour and make decisions that affect its workers. We are expecting those bonuses next month but government has decided otherwise.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Professional Nurses Union secretary-general Douglas Chikobvu concurred with Dongo’s remarks adding:
<blockquote>
We strongly feel that the government might be trying to get a scapegoat to undercharge us and avoid paying our bonuses decently. Above all, there is nothing to smile at given that most workers are wallowing in abject poverty courtesy of the government measly wage.
</blockquote>
Organising secretary for Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions, Farai Chinosengwa said the policy might trigger sexual harassment at workplaces where women will be abused to get favourable performance appraisal reports.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Performance-based Bonuses: Civil Servants Say Govt Looking For Scapegoat To Withhold 13th Cheque

Public Service Commission (PSC) secretary, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jonathan_Wutawunashe">Jonathan Wutawunashe</a> has retired from the commission after being at the helm for nearly five years.
He is 67 years old.
Acting PSC secretary Edson Badarai confirmed Wutawunashe’s retirement from the PSC. He said Wutawunashe, a former Ambassador, would issue a statement. Said Badarai told The Standard:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that he (Wutawunashe) is now retired but we will be issuing an official statement very soon.
</blockquote>
Wutawunashe was allegedly working on a contract basis for the past two years.
Wutawunashe reached the retirement age of 65 years in 2020.
There are some insiders who allege that President Emmerson Mnangagwa forced Wutawunashe to retire after he was implicated in some scandals.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Public Service Commission Secretary Jonathan Wutawunashe Retires

The government has said the payment of bonuses will be with effect from this year, 2022, paid based on individuals’ performance.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has since issued a circular to line ministries to that effect.
In a letter seen by Pindula News, the permanent secretary of Health and Child Care, Jasper Chimedza urged the senior management in the health sector to ensure that members in the sector are appraised. Reads the letter addressed to The Chief Directors, Provincial Medical Directors, Acting Chief Medical Directors, Directors, and Deputy Directors:
<blockquote>
<h2>PAYMENTS OF ANNUAL BONUSES FOR THE YEAR 2022. </h2>
The above matter refers. 
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has issued a circular notifying of the changed method of payment of bonuses and other performance-related awards in the Civil Service. 
It is advised that with effect from this year, 2022, bonus will ONLY be paid based on performance appraisal reports.
Considering the foregoing, kindly ensure that all members of staff from Deputy director level and below are appraised as per the standard requirements. You will be notified as to when to submit the consolidated performance ratings at the appropriate time.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt Says Bonus Will ONLY Be Paid Based On Performance Appraisal Reports

The Government is rolling out low-cost loans for civil servants to advance their education and improve competitiveness in the labour market, Public Service Commission Secretary Ambassador <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jonathan_Wutawunashe">Jonathan Wutawunashe</a> has said.
He made the remarks at the National Secretaries’ Day Celebrations in Harare on Friday where he was officiating on behalf of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/civil-servants-to-get-educational-loans">The Sunday Mail</a> quotes him as saying:
<blockquote>
The PSC offers training loans for people in the civil service. Recently, I was given a document to approve the list of personnel who were asking for low-cost self-development and training loans.
I was astonished because on average each Government ministry submitted a list of two people to be given the training loans.
The money is there to cover more people, so before I signed I said let’s improve the numbers and let’s make sure that among those numbers are some of the people whom we have in this room.
</blockquote>
He added that secretaries can only adapt to the changing dynamics of technology through education and training warning that those who refuse to upgrade themselves would become outdated.
Wutawunashe implored secretaries to stay abreast with technological developments as the workplace is now “a shape-up or ship-out environment. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt Offers Training Loans For Workers In The Civil Service

The entire civil service is reverting to normal working hours starting at 7:45 am to 4:45 pm following agreements between the employees’ representatives and their employer on the improved conditions of services.
Normal service had been disrupted as a control measure for the COVID-19 pandemic, but the government introduced a cocktail of containment measures which means more social contact is now permissible.
A return to the standard shifts was announced Tuesday after a Cabinet meeting.
Announcing the Cabinet decision last night Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa">Monica Mutsvangwa</a> said:
<blockquote>
In view of the opening up of the economy and the need to enhance service delivery to citizens, Cabinet also resolved that, going forward, the entire civil service should revert to normal working hours, that is 7:45am to 4:45pm.
Cabinet wishes to inform the nation that the continued discussions and engagement with the stakeholders is bearing fruit and has positively resulted in increased attendance at schools by both teachers and pupils.
</blockquote>
Minister Mutsvangwa said Cabinet was also informed that Government and civil service representatives negotiated and agreed on improved conditions of service for civil servants.
The improved conditions of service include a 20 per cent review on gross payments backdated to January 1, a continuation of payment of US$75 Covid-19 allowance for civil servants payable in hard currency with effect from January 1, 2022.
There was also an introduction of a US$100 salary to be paid in hard currency across the board with effect from March 1, bringing the total USD monthly pay component to USD$175, with effect from March 1, 2022. 
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/civil-servants-revert-to-normal-working-hours/">The Herald</a>

Cabinet: The Entire Civil Service Should Return To Normal Working Hours

Workers’ unions have opposed a move by the government to implement mandatory vaccination of government workers saying that will be a violation of workers’ rights.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) secretary Jonathan Wutawunashe in communiqué last week<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/02/14/government-bars-unvaccinated-workers-from-work-withholds-salaries/"> said workers who were not vaccinated should be barred from the workplace</a> and should not be paid while they are barred. He added:
<blockquote>
Any member that is not fully vaccinated without a reasonable excuse shall be subject to disciplinary proceedings.
</blockquote>
However, civil servants’ unions yesterday said Zimbabwe had no laws that compel people to undergo compulsory vaccinations. Zimbabwe Nurses Association (Zina) president Enock Dongo told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
Government has an obligation to respect the rights of its workers.
We actually encourage members to get vaccinated because of the many advantages which include reducing new infections, hospitalisations and deaths. But we are also saying some have genuine reasons why they don’t want to be vaccinated and they must not be forced.
</blockquote>
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou said: 
<blockquote>
As much as we encourage our members to be vaccinated, we are against any mandatory vaccination. The government must invest in incentives for vaccination.
</blockquote>
PTUZ secretary for health Nyaradzo Munjodzi echoed Zhou’s remarks adding that compelling people to be vaccinated is a violation of individual rights.
The World Health Organisation <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/11/30/who-allows-governments-to-impose-mandatory-covid-19-vaccination/">(WHO) last year allowed government to impose mandatory vaccination</a> only after all measures to encourage voluntary inoculation had failed. 
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/02/govt-civil-servants-on-collision-course-over-mandatory-vaccination/">NewsDay Zimababwe</a>

We'are Against Any Mandatory Vaccination - Workers' Unions

The Minister for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Professor Paul Mavima has said civil servants’ bonuses will be paid on time starting this November while negotiations for salary review are expected to resume soon. 
In an interview with the Chronicle, he said he hoped the issue of reviewing civil servants’ salaries will be concluded before the end of the year. Mavima said:
<blockquote>
Civil servants must rest assured that their 13th cheque is coming. Government will pay bonuses starting this month so there is no need to panic.
What needs to be attended to is the issue of salary review for civil servants and Government is seized with this issue. Right now a mandate is being sought from the Ministry of Finance to pay civil servants the bonuses while salary negotiations are expected to resume soon.
</blockquote>
He said Government has given its negotiating team the green light to resume salary negotiations with civil servants’ representatives.
Since January Government has been making regular salary adjustments for its employees while pension payouts have also been adjusted to cushion pensioners. In July civil servants received a salary increase of between 45 and 50 per cent.
In April, the Government had made another increase of 25 per cent in addition to a host of non-monetary benefits. 
Government workers have in recent years embarked on periodic protests demanding better salaries and improved working conditions.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/bonus-plus-pay-hike-for-civil-servants/">The Chronicle</a>

Government Speaks On Bonuses And Salary Review For Civil Servants

The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) has claimed that teachers’ salary negotiations are being hindered by the laws currently in place.
ZIMTA Chairperson Dr. Sifiso Ndlovu told ZBC News that current laws were limiting teachers’ advocacy efforts for better salaries. He said:
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">Somebody will look from a distance and say what has the law to do with the salary of a teacher, it has everything to do with it because as it stands the law is not giving us enough room to talk about our salaries and conclude in agreement.</blockquote>
He speaks after ZIMTA, and the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) in 2019 presented a petition that identified legislative indeficiencies that are supposedly hindering teachers salary negotiations.
Meanwhile, salary negotiations between the government and workers’ representatives, the NCCJ commenced recently but they ended in a deadlock after workers rejected the proposed salary increment which the government had tabled.
Workers want the employer to restore their 2018 salaries when most workers were being paid around USD500.
While the “incapacitated” workers are claiming that the government is not showing any commitment to improve their welfare, authorities say they are actually trying to improve all workers’ lives.
Speaking when parliamentarians and the Public Service Commission met teachers unions in Mutare this Saturday, the Permanent Secretary for the Public Service Commission Ambassador Jonathan Wutawunashe reaffirming the importance of such open dialogue to ensure positive results. He said:
<blockquote>We are trying to improve conditions of service for every civil servant. We have explained that we want to do but perhaps we have to explain better and we are doing so in formals with workers representatives.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education Honourable Priscilla Misihairambwi-Mushonga said the meeting gave government workers a platform to indicate their grievances.
The meeting was convened as some teachers’ unions are threatening to take it to the streets to protest against “paltry salaries” and poor working conditions.
More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/authorities-deliberate-on-teachers-welfare/">ZBC News</a>

The Law A Hindrance To Salary Negotiations - ZIMTA

Government workers rejected new salaries tabled by the government at the salary meeting between the employer and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Joint_Negotiating_Council_%28NJNC%29">workers’ representatives</a> held on 12 March 2021 in the capital. This was revealed by the ZCPSTU in a statement released after the meeting in which the pressure group was seeking a new mandate from its members. The meeting was scheduled after <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/08/26/zimbabwe-nurses-association-gives-notice-strike/">workers had threatened to embark on industrial action.</a> We present the pressure group’s statement below.
<blockquote>Outcome of the NJNC meeting held on 12 March 2021 
Fellow comrades, as we are all aware that we had threatened to pull out of the meeting due to the intimidatory presser which was released by the Public Service Commission on the eve of today’s meeting, after some engagements, a way forward was mapped and the meeting took place.
There is nothing to bring back home to you our constituency. The Government’s offer does not even whisper to our demands which we have been tabling since we started negotiations post the dollarized era of October 2018. In today’s meeting, the Government tabled a derisory offer of 25% with effect from 01 April 2021 against the 151% offer accorded to other sectors.
The offer by Grade, therefore, translates to:
<ul>
<li>B1 (Old earning 14652) –  (New earning 16752)</li>
<li>C1 (Old earning 15378)  – (New earning 17659)</li>
<li>D1 (Old earning 19101) – (New earning 22314)</li>
<li>E3 (Old earning 21847) – (New earning 25746)</li>
<li>E5 (Old earning 28168) – (New earning 33647)</li>
</ul>
After the presentation colleagues, the offer was totally rejected. The council had an argument based on adherence to the November 2020 agreement which speaks to the crafting of the roadmap to restoration of October 2018 salaries. It therefore denotes that any offer to be tabled should be a result of the roadmap that is when are we to reach our target of 2018 October salaries.
To this end comrades, the meeting ended with an impasse. We therefore stand guided by you on how best to treat this scenario.</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Proposed Salaries Which Workers Rejected

Civil servants have reportedly been in a stampede to buy basic commodities in a bid to outsmart the soaring inflation.
A snap survey conducted by Zim Morning Post observed that consumers flooded big supermarkets including Food World and OK where foreign currency is accepted at parallel market rates.
The development comes after most civil servants on Tuesday received their salaries which range between ZWL 3200 (US$45), and ZWL$5000 (US$72) depending with department and grade.
Prices of basic goods and services have continued to skyrocket although a <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/16/month-on-month-inflation-drops-to-15-13-per-cent/">recent report by the Zimbabwe National Statistical Agency (ZIMSTAT)</a> observes that the month on month inflation rate in May 2020 was 15.13% shedding 2.51 percentage points on the April rate of 17.64%.
Some retailers have resorted to pricing certain goods exclusively in US dollars amid stagnation of incomes and volatile parallel market exchange rates.
Meanwhile, TM supermarket was selling white sugar at ZWL 139 with the same product going for US$2.50 elsewhere while Tongaat Hulett, the biggest sugar producer has recommended that retailers can sell a 2kg pack of white sugar at 147.86 with effect from 15 June 2020.
All these developments come when workers are engaging the government to restore the value of their salaries to the value they had in October 2018.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/15/tongaat-hulett-sugar-prices-effective-15-june-2020/">Zim Morning Post</a>

Workers Stampede To Buy Basic Commodities As Inflation Soars

The Public Service Commission has released a press statement with regards to the recently announced Government Employees Mutual Savings Fund (GEMS).
The Commission said that GEMS can benefit government through concessional loans.
PSC also said that the fund is separate from the initiative to revive garrison shops for uniformed forces.
Fears abound over the GEMS with members of the public saying that the government want to use the 2.5% fee which is to be deducted every month to fund the garrison shops.
We present PSC’s statement in full below.
<blockquote>PRESS STATEMENT BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES MUTUAL SAVINGS FUND (GEMS FUND)
1.0 GEMS is a voluntary scheme that mobilises savings by Government employees for the purpose of wealth creation to benefit those Civil Servants while still serving as well as post-employment; 
2.0 GEMS is a Fund from which Civil Servants can benefit through concessional loans to assist them with wealth creation projects and other requirements; 
3.0 A contribution of 2.5% of basic salary will be made by Civil Servants who opt to participate in this voluntary scheme; 
4.0 Government has provided seed capital of ZWL $100 million with the possibility of the amount being doubled to ZWL $200 million to support Civil Servants by kick-starting the scheme; 
5.0 Since GEMS is being launched as a facility for wealth creation, upon termination of employment members can withdraw the totality of their contribution with accrued interest; 
6.0 GEMS is being introduced as part of the expanding portfolio of benefits to support the livelihoods of Civil Servants; 
7.0 The Public Service Commission has been greatly encouraged by the strong support given to this and other such initiatives by the Office of the President and Cabinet and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development in the context of the Tripartite which comprises the Office of the President and Cabinet, the Public Service Commission and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development; 
8.0 Appreciation must be recorded for the swift and decisive manner in which Cabinet considered and approved the GEMS initiative, a scheme that fosters a culture of savings; 
9.0 Another, separate initiative approved on the same day by Cabinet is the operationalisation of Garrison Shops for the Uniformed Services, namely Zimbabwe Defence Forces; Zimbabwe Police Service and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service to ensure convenient access to reasonably priced commodities; 
10.0 These Garrison Shops are based on a self-financing model as they entail selling of goods to customers; 
11.0 Logistical arrangements relating to the operationalisation of Garrison Shops are being worked out; 
12.0 Civil Servants will benefit from SILO Shops which will also operate on the basis of affordable pricing of commodities. 
Ambassador Jonathan Wutawunashe 
SECRETARY 
SERVICE COMMISSIONS
<img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="594" data-maxwidth="272" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ERzFiN3XkAAW5p9?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/></blockquote>

Public Service Commission Statement On Govt Employees Mutual Savings Fund And Garrison Shops

Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sithembiso_Nyoni">Sithembiso Nyoni</a> has come out to say her ministry was not recruiting.
This follows claims <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/11/04/we-cant-find-qualified-ward-development-coordinators-for-matabeleland-north-even-after-advertising-women-affairs-ministry-of/">that had been made by the ministry’s Principal Director at the pre-budget seminar in Vic Falls</a> that they cant get candidates for the community coordination posts for Matabeleland North a statement that angered parliamentarians.
The Minister said:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development wishes to advise the public that there is currently a national recruitment freeze for the above posts.
Treasury has not given concurrence to fill up the posts. The recruitment falls under the remit of the Public Service Commission (PSC) not the ministry. Until such concurrence has been given the posts remain frozen
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/womens-affairs-not-recruiting-minister/">The Herald</a>

The Women Ministry is Not Recruiting - Nyoni Dismisses Subordinate's Claims That They Can't Find Qualified Candidates

The Public Service Commission has expelled its paymaster, Brighton Chiuzingo, who was on suspension since last year for abuse of office and maladministration.
The Herald was told that Chiuzingo was on Friday informed of his expulsion through a letter. An unnamed spoke to the publication saying:
<blockquote>He was discharged of his duties and he is no longer part of the SSB (Salary Service Bureau). He was given the letter of discharge from his duties last Friday.</blockquote>
Reports suggest that Chiuzingo had a culture of increasing his own salary and at some point, his net salary stood at $1 595.46 but it was increased to $6 575.11.
Chiuzingo is also accused of misusing a number of government vehicles.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/psc-fires-paymaster/">The Herald</a>

Public Service Commission Paymaster Fired

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has said that civil servants who have benefited from the Government’s motor vehicle scheme will not be eligible to benefit again for the next five years.
PSC Secretary, Ambassador Jonathan Wutawunashe directed a Circular to all Government departments noting that beneficiaries should have served the public service for at least 10 continuous years. He said:
<blockquote>If the member satisfies the above criteria, the head of ministry shall forward the recommendations together with the relevant copies of driver’s licence and current pay slip (original) to the PSC for clearance.</blockquote>
He added that after clearance has been granted, the PSC will forward the recommendations to Treasury for concurrence. Wutawunashe said:
<blockquote>The vehicle should not be older than 10 years from the date of manufacture at the time of importation. The Government shall grant rebate of duty on a motor vehicle with a maximum import value of US$10 000. The vehicle must meet the specifications under the Customs Tariff Codes.</blockquote>
For the rebate on import of a motor vehicle to be processed, a member must submit:
<ol>
<li>Clearance from the PSC, </li>
<li>Treasury concurrence, </li>
<li>Copy of a driver’s licence</li>
<li>In the case of a member living with a disability, a valid driver’s licence of a designated driver must be submitted, and</li>
<li>Proof of residence and a copy of identity card.</li>
</ol>
The grant of the rebate will be immediately revoked once a member resigns from service before the expiry of five years.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/psc-clarifies-position-on-vehicle-scheme/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

Public Service Commission Explains How The Civil Servants Vehicle Scheme Works

Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC) Vincent Hungwe has revealed government plans to increase civil servants’ salaries between June and July. Hungwe also said that the government was aware of the soaring inflation that is eroding workers’ salaries.
Hungwe revealed that proposed measures to cushion workers had already been tabled. He said:
<blockquote>Since the 1st of April, there has been some changes, some challenges within our economy and we are continuing to engage employees in order to come up with a mid-term adjustment to their salaries sometime in June and July.</blockquote>
The government raised civil servants’ salaries in April leaving the least paid getting ZWL$600. However, the Real Time Gross Settlement dollar has been shedding value at an unparalleled rate. ZWL$600.00 is now being equated to only US$100 considering that the parallel market is now trading at around ZWL$570 per US$100.
Teachers and Doctors have given the government a two-week ultimatum to resolve the issue. They are demanding to be paid in United States Dollars or workers will withdraw their services.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/05/pay-rise-for-civil-servants/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a> 
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Govt Set To Increase Workers' Salaries

In a statement the Public Service Commission (PSC) said 1 500 names have been submitted for consideration and confirmation. This first batch prioritises schools in the rural areas.
PSC said there are 8 509 posts that remain unfilled on account of funding shortfalls. According to PSC there are 19 993 unemployed teachers, some who completed their training in 2012. PSC said is also exploring opportunities to place the teachers in SADC member states and other regions. We publish the full statement below:
<blockquote>1. The Public Service Commission, fully cognisant of the important role that education plays in the attainment of critical national goals, continues to pay close attention to developments in the sector with a view to implementing supportive actions that benefit teachers and learners alike.
2. It is not only desirable, but necessary, for ways to be found to close the staffing gap in our schools, where 8 509 posts remain unfilled on account of funding shortfalls. This gap places schoolchildren at a disadvantage, and retards the attainment of national development goals.
3. The Commission therefore welcomes the recent decision by Government to provide funds to facilitate the recruitment of 3 000 additional teachers in primary and secondary schools as an interim measure while the request for additional resources to engage more teachers is awaited.
4. The Commission also recognises the on-going sterling work by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in identifying the qualified teaching personnel for specific subjects in all provinces and districts of the country.
5. So far 1 500 names have been submitted to the Public Service Commission for consideration and confirmation. This first batch prioritises schools in the rural areas.
6. Concurrent with the foregoing, the attention of the Commission has been drawn to the plight of [19 993] teachers who completed their training, some as far back as 2012, but have not yet been placed in teaching positions.
7. Accordingly, Government in partnership with the Commission is exploring several initiatives to create opportunities for the teachers who are not absorbed under the current recruitment exercise to be placed in schools when national budgetary resources permit.
8. Government and the Commission are also exploring opportunities to place the teachers in SADC member states and other regions through mutually beneficial bilateral and multilateral arrangements.
 </blockquote>

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