Exam Class Teachers Can Still Transfer, But Only in Special Cases, Says Minister

Exam Class Teachers Can Still Transfer, But Only in Special Cases, Says Minister

Despite recent government efforts to stop teachers from moving mid-year, it turns out teachers handling Grade 7, O-Level, and A-Level classes can still be transferred in certain situations.

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education had introduced a ban to prevent disruptions in learning, especially after a flood of transfer requests from rural teachers wanting to relocate to urban areas. The goal was to keep exam classes stable so pupils wouldn’t be left stranded without teachers before their final exams.

Health Issues Remain Valid Grounds for Transfers

However, Education Minister Torerayi Moyo explained that the transfer ban isn’t absolute. Teachers can still move, even during the school year, if they have valid medical reasons.

Minister Moyo clarified that the only exception to the transfer freeze involves teachers suffering from chronic illnesses. These teachers can be allowed to relocate at any time during the year if they provide medical proof showing the need to move closer to healthcare facilities. He stressed that no other reason would qualify for a transfer before exams.

“Such teachers may be considered after providing proof, usually from a medical expert, that there is a need for them to move to a place where they can receive attention from a doctor. Any other reason for a transfer request is never entertained for teachers taking examination classes,” he said.

Transfers for Exam Teachers Only Allowed After Exams — With One Exception

For everyone else, the rule remains strict. The Ministry’s policy puts transfers for teachers of key exam classes on hold until after the final examinations, usually allowing moves in the third term for the following school year.

Minister Moyo shared these details in Parliament while responding to a question from Chimanimani West legislator Wilson Maposa, who wanted to know if any exemptions existed for teachers handling Grade 7, O-Level, and A-Level classes.