Ayesha Nyanzunda
The government has warned that all unregistered private schools operating in Zimbabwe will be shut down from January 2026 if they fail to regularise their operations.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo told Parliament on Tuesday that the mushrooming of illegal schools across the country had become a major concern.
“It is illegal to establish a school that is not registered. We have given a grace period until December 31, 2025, for directors of such schools to follow procedures. Come January 2026, those that remain unregistered will be closed,” Moyo said.
The minister said authorities had delayed closures to avoid disrupting learners during the school year, particularly those preparing for examinations.
The remarks came after Mt. Pleasant Constituency member of parliament(MP), George Mashavave asked if there was a policy to monitor and regulate private schools and colleges that are rapidly emerging.
MP for Harare, Ellen Shiriyedenga questioned whether the mushrooming of unregistered schools was linked to the deficit of schools across the country, which government itself previously estimated at 3,000.
Moyo said progress had been made since a 2022 study revealed the shortfall. He told the House that more than 600 schools had been constructed since then, with a target of at least 200 more in 2025.
He said government was working with churches, corporates, and international partners to close the gap. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has built seven schools this year, while the Johane Marange Apostolic Church is constructing eight. The National Building Society is funding 25 government schools, and the OPEC Fund for International Development has pledged US$20 million for further projects.
Moyo stressed that while government is committed to expanding access to education, illegal operations would not be tolerated.
“We appeal to directors to follow proper procedures. If they do not, our ministry will enforce closure at the beginning of next year,” he said.