Mat North Correspondent
Thandiwe Mathema, the headmistress of Chinotimba Primary School in Victoria Falls, is facing serious allegations from parents regarding nepotism and bullying of both teachers and students.
Parents claim that Mathema, who is new to the school, has created a hostile environment, pressuring teachers to perform menial tasks such as sweeping the school premises before classes begin.
Concerns Over Treatment of Teachers and Students
Parents have reported that Mathema has clashed with the School Development Committee (SDC) and has been pressuring students into manual labor, with children allegedly working from 7:30 AM to 10 AM. One parent stated,
“The headmistress has fallen out with the SDC because she is a bully. She bullies teachers, yet is new at the school.”
There are also alarming reports of a grade three pupil who sustained a serious injury while cleaning a window under Mathema’s insistence on maintaining cleanliness.
This incident reportedly led to heightened tensions between the school administration and the SDC.
Procurement Issues and Nepotism
Concerns have also been raised regarding Mathema’s handling of procurement processes. Parents allege that she bypassed standard procedures by selecting her husband’s unlisted bid for transporting firewood instead of adhering to the SDC-approved bidders. One parent explained,
“Mathema herself wrote the quotation and gave it to the procurement committee,” which raises serious questions about the legality of her actions.
Additionally, Mathema is accused of appointing her sister to fill a teaching position during another teacher’s maternity leave, ignoring established hiring guidelines from the Ministry of Education. This has led to further complaints from the SDC, which has formally petitioned the District Schools Inspectorate (DSI) to investigate her conduct.
Response from the School Development Committee
Bhekimpilo Tshongwe, the SDC chairman, confirmed the allegations, stating that Mathema has shown a disregard for established procurement regulations and has often expressed her unwillingness to collaborate with the committee. He noted,
“Mathema often does what she wants. We have tried to engage her many times and she has refused.”
Ongoing Investigation
The District Schools Inspectorate, represented by Lawrence Matshazi, has acknowledged the complaints and is currently investigating the matter.
Mathema declined to comment on the allegations, stating,
“I don’t have a comment on that one because you have your sources.”
Conclusion
The situation at Chinotimba Primary School highlights significant concerns regarding leadership practices, the treatment of staff and students, and adherence to procedural regulations. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits a resolution that addresses these serious allegations.
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