Parents of pupils at Usher High School in Matabeleland South have raised concerns about hygiene, water shortages and the safety of their children’s belongings at the institution.
Several parents, who spoke to CITE on condition of anonymity, alleged that the boarding facilities were unclean and poorly supervised.
They claimed that at the end of last term students were instructed to leave some belongings, including blankets and trunks, at the school to reduce luggage when travelling home. On returning for the new term on Monday, some reportedly found their blankets missing and trunks opened.
“Some of the students found their blankets missing and trunks opened,” one parent said.
Parents also said they had requested to inspect the boarding facilities during a meeting with school authorities last term but were initially denied access. Those who later viewed the premises described the environment as untidy.
“When we went there it was dirty, there was no order,” another parent said.
Another parent added: “Conditions at the school are quite atrocious. Doors have no handles and cannot be locked, posing serious security risks. Serious water shortages, dubious water quality for drinking, and no hot water for bathing in the morning.”
They stressed that their concerns were not directed at teachers personally but focused on ensuring a clean and safe environment for learners. They also called for greater emphasis on teaching and maintaining hygiene standards among pupils.
In addition, parents alleged that the school toilets were unclean and that the institution was facing water shortages. Some claimed that students had at one point been asked to fetch water from a nearby dam.
“There is a water crisis at the school. I tried to use the toilet, it was dirty and there was no water,” a parent said.
Contacted for comment, School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson Anesu George Chibi declined to address the allegations in detail.
“Parents know the appropriate channels to raise their concerns. They have the headmaster’s number and should communicate directly rather than going to the media,” he said.
The school headmaster was not immediately available for comment.