Educators Push to Scrap $2,500 Private College Registration Fee

ZIMSEC Banner (image source)

— Education stakeholders are calling for the removal of the US$2,500 annual registration fee imposed on private colleges by the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC), arguing it threatens access to education and unfairly penalizes learners outside the public system. The demand was raised during a public hearing on the Zimbabwe Schools and Council Amendment Bill. Critics say the fee places a disproportionate burden on students, especially in new settlements where government schools are scarce.

“The US$2,500 makes it expensive for some learners to register for examinations,” said Elliott Dzindikwa, Director of Trust Academy.

Prof. Washington Mahiya, representing the Association of Independent Colleges, argued that private institutions are bridging gaps left by government schools:“The colleges are playing a big role, especially in areas without government schools.”

Disparities Between Public and Private Institutions

Currently, government schools benefit from state subsidies on exam fees, while private college students must pay full costs — a disparity educators describe as discriminatory. The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) supported reforms to improve exam security. Spokesperson Daisy Zambuko said:“ZIMSEC should distribute papers internally to ensure security.”

Stakeholders also demanded greater accountability in how registration fees are used, with some proposing that ZIMSEC’s financial records be subjected to parliamentary audit.

Calls for Reform

Committee chair Supa Mandiwanzira acknowledged the concerns, stressing that reforms should elevate ZIMSEC’s credibility to international standards. Analysts note that reducing costs for private institutions would improve equity in access to education, particularly for low-income families.