ZIMSEC markers desert marking over allowances
The Zimbabwe School Examination Council (ZIMSEC) markers yesterday neglected marking over allowances. The markers demand transport and subsistence allowances. The striking markers were marking the 2020 November O and A level scripts.
Sources say ZIMSEC only deposited a third of the agreed fee into the markers’ accounts. Only $7 000 was deposited instead of $21 000. This occurs after the teachers and lecturers gave the government a notice that they will go on a strike next week if the government does not pay them the agreed salaries.
Late last year markers also protested after they were given plates of sadza as allowances. Examiners in Harare are camped at Mt Pleasant High School where they staged a mini-demonstration demanding their dues. Some of the markers have left camps and will resume if they receive their money.
“We commenced work on the 6th of March and ZIMSEC promised us that our allowances would be deposited in two days time. However, that did not happen and we were patient. We have been using our own money for food, transport and accommodation. Some of the markers come from outside Harare so you can imagine the expenses.”
“We hear some regions received their full allowances amounting to between about $21 000. Harare and Bulawayo are the only regions affected,” said one marker.
ZIMSEC markers desert marking over allowances
The other protesting marker also reports that they are buying supper using their own money. He adds that the living conditions at Mt Pleasant High school are unbearable because there is no running water.
“Those who live outside the marking venue commute every day using their own resources. As a result we want our full package just like other regions such as Masvingo, Bindura, Chinhoyi and Mutare,” he adds.
In Bulawayo, markers are also protesting because they did not receive the full agreed amount. ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicholette Dhlamini confirms that indeed Bulawayo and Harare did not receive their full payments. She claims the second batch will be paid soon.
Educators also say that they have been informed that the government will intervene since ZIMSEC has run out of funds.