By Lubalethu Ndlovu and Senzeni Ncube
Some private schools in Bulawayo have resorted to online-based classes to allow learners to catch up with their studies as there is uncertainty on when schools might reopen due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has forced the country to go on lockdown.
The government closed all schools and colleges on March 24, 2020, in response to the threat posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Masiyephambili Junior School has notified parents with children at the school that it will be setting up online classes during the lockdown.
“We noticed that the lockdown has been extended hence the need to think in other terms to keep our children learning and occupied apart from the holiday homework, they took at the closing of schools,” the notice read.
“We are in the process of starting E-Learning classes as we proceed with continuous learning in the event of further delays in the opening of schools.”
Christian Brothers College (CBC) also introduced a similar platform with online classes set to start on April 24.
“Please be advised that the college is on Google classroom and that teachers will be sending learning material notes, exercises and explanations on that platform in the different subjects,” said CBC.
“Officially, staff will be sending learning material from Friday 24th April 2020. As a college, we are committed to all our students continuing to learn to best effect.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says they are still strategising on the way forward with regards to the resumption of the schools’ calendar.
Speaking to CITE, the ministry spokesperson Patrick Zumbo said they are yet to come up with a concrete plan.
“For now schools are still closed, we closed early due to Covid-19,” said Zumbo.
However, some parents have raised concerns that some school buildings have been are used as isolation centres for Zimbabweans based in neighbouring countries who are returning home.
Plumtree High School is being used as a quarantine center for deportees from Botswana.
Bulawayo Polytechnic, United College of Education are also housing some of the deportees before they are released to their families.
Zumbo added that these schools will be disinfected to allow learners to use them when schools open.
