By 
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has conducted a nationwide survey revealing a crisis in the country’s education sector as the second term of the 2025 academic year opens.
In its report, ARTUZ has painted a bleak picture of widespread teacher job action, alarmingly low learner attendance, and a system ill-prepared for effective learning.
By Vongai Masuka
The survey, conducted across all provinces, shows teacher dissatisfaction with their conditions of service, prompting industrial action.
While an average of 68% teacher attendance was recorded nationally, the majority of those present were reportedly engaged in picketing rather than teaching.
The metropolitan provinces saw higher teacher presence, while remote areas like Matebeleland North and Mashonaland Central experienced the lowest rates, often due to transportation challenges and economic hardships.
“Teachers heeded the Union’s call to be present at their schools primarily for picketing purposes.” reads the report.
Adding to the crisis, learner attendance figures are equally concerning, with a national average of just 59%.
One school in Matebeleland South recorded a mere 9% attendance.
ARTUZ has reported that 197,628 learners who did present themselves were turned away for failing to pay school fees, effectively denying them their right to education.
The combination of teacher strikes and low learner turnout has resulted in a complete absence of learning in public schools across the country on the day of the survey.
“The survey unequivocally indicates that no meaningful learning took place in any public school across Zimbabwe.
“The findings of this survey underscore the urgent need for decisive action to rescue Zimbabwe’s education system from the precipice of catastrophe.” reads the report.
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