WE, in the village, hold ourselves to a high standard of accountability and honesty, always ready to call a spade a spade.
This principle of frankness is essen-tial in addressing issues that impact our community negatively. However, equally important is our readiness to celebrate the good within our communities with equal fervor. This dual approach ensures that while we remain critical when necessary, we also recognise and appreciate positive developments that benefit us all.
Not so long ago, we united in criticising schools that insisted on accepting fees exclusively in US dollars. This policy was a significant burden on many families, who struggled to obtain foreign currency.
Such a demand not only exacerbated the financial strain on parents but also threat-ened to widen the gap between those who could afford education and those who could not. Our collective outcry was a tes-tament to our commitment to fairness and equity, ensuring that education remains accessible to all children and that we do not sabotage our new currency.
However, this week, we find ourselves on the opposite end of the spectrum, ready to commend those same schools for a pos-itive shift in policy.

It has been reported that over 99 per-cent of schools nationwide have now accepted the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) for tuition fees and levies. This development marks a significant and commendable adaptation to the economic realities of our nation, we now have a currency, and it is working well.
The decision by schools to accept ZiG is a progressive step towards economic inclusivity.
For many families acceptance of the ZiG is particularly significant as it provides
a more manageable and fair system for paying school fees, reducing the economic burden on parents and ensuring that more children can continue their education without disruption.
ZiG, being a currency backed by gold reserves, is proving to be a more accessible and stable alternative to the US dollar for many families.
Taungana Ndoro, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s director of communications and advocacy, expressed the ministry’s delight at the overwhelming acceptance of the ZiG currency by schools nationwide.
“We are delighted to see the overwhelming acceptance of the ZiG currency by schools nationwide,” said Ndoro.
By calling out practices that are unjust or burdensome, we ensure that our collective voice is heard and that necessary changes are made.
At the same time, by celebrating positive changes, we acknowledge and support efforts that benefit our community, fostering a spirit of cooperation and optimism.
The recent acceptance of ZiG by schools is a perfect example of this balance.
We were right to criticise the exclusive demand for US dollars, as it was an un-sustainable and unfair practice. Now, we are equally right to celebrate the schools’ acceptance of ZiG, recognising it as a significant step towards economic inclusivity and stability
The acceptance of ZiG by schools has wider economic Implications.

The acceptance of ZiG by schools is more than just a practical solution for fee payments; it is a statement of confidence in our local currency system.
The widespread acceptance of ZiG will have ripple effects beyond the educational sector.
It will encourage other sectors to adopt similar practices, thereby promoting
a more unified and resilient economic framework within the country.
Looking ahead, the successful imple-mentation of ZiG in schools could serve as a model for other public services and institutions.
As more sectors embrace ZiG, we can expect a more cohesive and stable eco-nomic environment, benefiting all members of the community.
The principles of honesty and celebration are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary. By holding institutions accountable and praising positive changes,

we create a dynamic and progressive com-munity.
The transition of schools to accepting ZiG is a victory for all, reflecting our col-lective efforts to improve our educational system and economic resilience.
As we continue to navigate the challeng-es and opportunities ahead, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to fairness and progress.
Education is not merely a pathway to personal and professional growth; it is a fundamental pillar for the sustainable de-velopment of any nation.
Every child should have access to edu-cation for the long-term development and prosperity of our nation.
Every child, regardless of their back-ground or economic status, should have the opportunity to receive a quality edu-cation.
And our nation has worked hard to en-sure we have adequate schools ensuring that no one and no place is left behind.
It is no secret that education empowers individuals with knowledge, skills and values necessary to lead productive lives, contribute to society and drive economic growth.
When children are educated, they are better equipped to make informed deci-sions, innovate and participate fully in their communities.
So well done to the schools for being reasonable and seeing the light.

Businessman Tawanda Chenana is a philanthropist and ZANU PF Secretary for Education in Mashonaland East Province.