2,800 Pupils Drop Out Of School In Sinda

An estimated 2,803 pupils in Sinda District, Eastern Province have dropped out of school in the past six months due to the coronavirus pandemic forcing schools to close. 

Government spokesperson Dora Siliya has expressed disappointment over the high number of dropouts, blaming it on a lack of appreciation for education amongst parents. 

Ms. Siliya said that most parents in rural areas prefer to marry off their daughters at a young age, while boys are left to herd cattle. She urged parents to instead support the government’s efforts in educating Zambian children.

The high levels of dropouts come despite the government’s praise for its e-learning systems, implemented during the height of the pandemic when schools were forced to close. 

Telecommunications provider Zamtel has even encouraged teachers to continue on its digital learning platform when schools are open, despite concerns over internet access for rural pupils.

Meanwhile, the National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) has labelled 2020 a ‘dead year’ for Zambian education, saying pupils who did not sit exams this year will need to relearn material in next year’s classes. 

Nevertheless, Ms Siliya has insisted that a reduction in school fees and the opening of schools amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic is sign enough that the government attaches great importance to education.