By Fungai B. Mutizwa
EUCATION is the foundation of any progressive society, shaping the minds, character, and future of young individuals. As such schools are not merely institutions of learning; they are places where children develop intellectually, emotionally and socially.
And at the heart of these institutions are school proprietors, individuals or organisations entrusted with the responsibility of managing and maintaining schools. Their role extends far beyond administrative duties; they are stewards of the future, responsible for shaping the next generation.
With such an enormous influence on young minds, it is essential that school proprietors operate within the country’s legal and ethical boundaries. Scandals, unethical behaviour should not define our schools. A school is not just a business; it is a sacred space that seeks to uplift lives and transform society.
While financial sustainability is necessary, it should never come at the cost of students’ well-being or the quality of education provided. Unfortunately, some school proprietors now see education primarily as a means of profit, which has led to unethical practices that compromise the very purpose of schooling.
When school proprietors abide by the law, they ensure that students receive quality education in an environment that nurtures growth. Government regulations are in place not to make lives difficult for those in the education sector but to maintain standards, from the qualifications of teachers to the infrastructure of school buildings.
These legal frameworks are not bureaucratic obstacles but safeguards designed to protect children from exploitation and substandard learning conditions. Schools that follow these guidelines contribute to a system where students are taught by qualified professionals, learn from well-structured curricula, and benefit from facilities that enhance their educational experience.
However, when profit takes precedence over ethics, the consequences are dire. Some school proprietors, driven by financial motives, inflate tuition fees without providing corresponding improvements in education. Parents, eager to secure the best possible future for their children, are often left with no choice but to pay these exorbitant fees, stretching their finances to the limit. Yet, despite these high costs, some schools fail to invest in adequate teaching materials, qualified educators, or even basic amenities. This financial exploitation is not only unethical but also a gross violation of the fundamental right to education.
Equally damaging is the employment of unqualified teachers, a practice that significantly compromises the quality of education. The effectiveness of a school depends largely on the competence of its educators. Legal requirements ensure that teachers meet specific qualifications, equipping them with the necessary skills to instruct, guide and inspire students.
Yet, some proprietors, seeking to cut costs, hire underqualified individuals who lack the expertise needed to teach effectively. The impact of this decision is long-lasting; students fail to grasp key concepts, their academic performance suffers, and their future opportunities diminish. The ripple effect extends beyond the classroom, weakening the foundation of an entire generation.
In some cases, the relentless pursuit of high academic results drives school proprietors to impose unrealistic expectations on students and teachers alike. Pressure mounts to maintain a reputation for excellence, leading to unethical practices such as exam malpractice, inflated grades, or an unhealthy emphasis on rote memorisation. In such environments, students are reduced to mere statistics, their worth measured only by their test scores. The immense stress placed on young minds results in anxiety, depression and burnout, stripping away the joy of learning. A school that truly prioritises students’ interests fosters curiosity, creativity and critical thinking rather than treating education as a competition.
Beyond academic concerns, the physical and emotional safety of students must be a priority. Schools that operate outside the law often neglect essential safety measures, putting children at risk. Overcrowded classrooms, inadequate sanitation and poorly maintained buildings create an environment that is neither conducive to learning nor safe for students. In extreme cases, schools that fail to adhere to building codes have faced catastrophic structural failures, leading to injuries or even loss of life. Compliance with legal requirements ensures that schools provide a secure environment where students can focus on their studies without fear.
A morally responsible school proprietor recognises that education is not just about academics; it is about nurturing well-rounded individuals who will contribute positively to society. Schools must provide a supportive atmosphere where students feel valued and protected by receiving all the things a school is legally bound to provide.
Education is a powerful tool that has the potential to break cycles of poverty, open doors to opportunities and empower individuals to reach their full potential. But this power can only be harnessed when schools are run with honesty and dedication to students’ best interests. Operating within the law is not just a bureaucratic necessity, it is a moral imperative. By ensuring that schools adhere to legal and ethical standards, proprietors safeguard the future of the very children they are meant to serve.
Ultimately, education should not be seen as purely a business enterprise driven by financial gain, but as a noble mission — one that shapes the next generation with knowledge, skills and values that will guide them throughout life. When school proprietors prioritise students’ welfare over profit, they fulfil their true role as custodians of learning. Their impact extends beyond the walls of the classroom, shaping the future of entire communities and nations. The success of any society depends on the quality of its education, and that quality begins with the integrity of those who lead its schools.
λ Fungai B. Mutizwa is the founder of Makumbe Hilltop College as well as a social entrepreneur and educationist dedicated to transforming rural communities through the introduction of the latest technologies and innovations. For comments and feedback, call cell 0772 315 282, 0712 547 694.
