Debt Collectors Block O-Level Registration in Kezi, Sparking Community Outrage

KEZI -Tension is rising in Matobo District after debt collectors were reportedly deployed at Sontala Secondary School, where they are accused of intimidating parents and preventing pupils from registering for their Ordinary Level examinations.

The incident has triggered widespread concern among families, who say the presence of private debt collectors at the school has created fear and confusion, while placing additional strain on already struggling households.

According to reports, the dispute stems from a decision by the school’s acting head to engage debt collectors to recover outstanding fees. Parents allege that, beyond demanding payment of arrears, the collectors have imposed an additional charge of about 34 percent, significantly inflating the amounts owed.

Some families further claim they have been threatened with the seizure of livestock if they fail to settle their debts, a move that has deepened anger within the community.

The situation has become more urgent as parents report that pupils with unpaid fees are being barred from registering for the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level examinations. With the registration deadline approaching, there are growing fears that affected learners could miss the opportunity to sit for the crucial exams.

Parents have also criticised the school administration for what they describe as a lack of communication, saying no prior meetings or formal notices were issued to discuss the fee challenges or possible payment arrangements before the debt collectors were brought in.

Community members argue that while the payment of school fees is necessary, the current approach is punitive and risks jeopardising the education and future of innocent learners.

Calls are now mounting for authorities to urgently intervene, with parents demanding that all eligible pupils be allowed to register for examinations regardless of outstanding balances, while a more humane solution to the fee dispute is sought.