CRISIS ESCALATES AT ST FAITH'S HIGH SCHOOL DUE TO OVER-ENROLLMENT
St Faith's High School in Rusape is grappling with a critical crisis as over-enrollment strains its infrastructure, leading to overcrowding in hostels, classrooms, and dining areas. The student population has doubled, overwhelming the school's existing resources.
Reports indicate that the Responsible Authority (RA) of the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland, under Bishop Rev. Eric Ruwona, directed the school to enroll at least 400 students. This decision was made despite warnings from the School Development Committee (SDC) about the inadequacy of the school's facilities to accommodate such a large influx.
In a statement addressed to parents, the SDC emphasized, "We highlighted that doubling enrollment comes with significant costs, requiring expansions in accommodation, classrooms, teaching staff, hostel staff, security, dining facilities, and church capacity, alongside increased demands on water and sewer systems."
Parents have expressed outrage, accusing the Diocese of prioritizing financial gain over student welfare. One parent stated, "It’s unacceptable that the Diocese would prioritize profit over creating a safe and healthy learning environment for our children."
Another parent voiced similar concerns: "We were not consulted about this over-enrollment decision, and now our children are suffering. The Diocese must take responsibility for this crisis and act immediately to resolve it."
Adding to the tensions, the Diocese has implemented a $950 mission fund fee for prospective students, claiming it will finance the construction of new facilities. However, the SDC has questioned the legality of this fee and called for transparency regarding its utilization.
The Ministry of Education has stepped in to address the issue, sending a team to investigate the root causes of the crisis. The SDC has suggested potential solutions, such as introducing bunk beds, but these have been rejected by the Ministry.
Currently, the situation remains critical. Students are enduring severe overcrowding, poor sanitation, and a lack of essential amenities. The SDC is appealing to parents and other stakeholders to contribute ideas and resources to resolve this crisis, which threatens the health, safety, and education of the students.
