By Tanyaradzwa Madanhire
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has called on government to prioritise the welfare of teachers working in rural areas, saying their living and working conditions remain difficult.
ARTUZ president Obert Masaraure said there is an urgent need for targeted interventions to improve the lives of rural educators, who play a critical role in the country’s education system.
“Government must prioritise improving the lives of teachers in rural areas,” said Masaraure. “These educators operate under challenging conditions, yet they are expected to deliver quality education.”
Masaraure proposed the introduction of an education equalisation fund, which he said could be used to improve the living standards of teachers in marginalised and remote communities.
He said increased investment in rural education is essential, noting that approximately 70 percent of Zimbabwe’s population lives in rural areas.
“If we are serious about national development, we must invest more in rural areas where the majority of our people live,” he said. “Supporting rural teachers is key to ensuring equitable access to quality education for all learners.”
The union said improving accommodation, access to basic services, and incentives for rural teachers would help bridge the gap between urban and rural education, while also improving teacher retention in hard-to-staff areas.