THE government has directed a rapid survey to identify schools where pupils study on the ground or under trees due to a lack of classrooms.

Mohammed Mchengerwa, the Regional Administration and Local Governments state minister in the President’s Office (PO-RALG), issued these instructions on Thursday when opening a training session on stress management for PO-RALG employees in the capital.

District executive directors and their technical teams will be formally contacted and required to provide explanations regarding inadequate classroom spaces, he said.

He stressed that it is unacceptable for pupils to be deprived of classrooms or desks, especially considering the significant financial investment made by the government in the education sector.

“For years, we have faced disruptions every December and January, with urgent needs for 250bn/- to 300bn/- for classrooms and desks,” he stated, noting that in the past two years there was no need for such requests.

“We have not needed to request funds from the president for building classrooms or purchasing desks. Do not wait for pressure—take action now,” he emphasised.

The ministry’s education management department will conduct an evaluation of dilapidated primary and secondary schools with a focus on creating a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, he further noted.

He praised ministerial staff for their efficient management of the local government elections, urged them to deliver quality services that meet expectations of the citizenry.

He was of the view that ministerial staff efforts have significantly contributed to reducing maternal and child mortality rates, appealing for close monitoring of regional and district medical officers to improve healthcare services.

Chief medical officers at regional and district levels plus heads of health centres need to be closely monitored to enhance the speed and quality of healthcare delivery to the public, he added.