By Staff Reporter
HARARE– Parents of learners at Danhiko School in Msasa have escalated their concerns over alleged financial mismanagement and abuse of power by the school’s Responsible Authority head, Witness Magulula, calling on the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to launch an immediate investigation.
The government-run school, which caters to learners with disabilities, is accused of turning student fees and donations into a personal revenue stream for some staff while essential services for children deteriorate.
Parents allege that Magulula uses proxies, including his ex-wife, to supply school uniforms at inflated prices, with proceeds allegedly unaccounted for in the school’s official accounts. They also claim that a US$30 registration fee per student and the US$280 boarding fee are misused, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
“We are being milked dry. Fees are paid, uniforms bought at inflated prices, but there is no paper trail. When we ask questions, we are labelled troublemakers,” said one parent who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Other allegations include diversion of a donated borehole to a nearby game park, the sale of wheelchairs meant for learners, unpaid salaries for ancillary staff, and unsafe conditions on school premises. Parents also accuse Magulula of sidelining professional staff while leaving absentee teachers unpunished.
“This is a crime scene. Danhiko is not a business; it is a lifeline for children with disabilities. Authorities must act before this becomes normalised,” said another parent.
Parents say they have already submitted formal complaints to ZACC and the District Schools Inspector but allege little follow-up, fueling suspicions of collusion with officials in the Epworth–Mabvuku–Tafara Education District.
Contacted for comment, the school head acknowledged challenges but said operations fall under the Responsible Authority he leads. Attempts to obtain clarity from the SDC chairperson Tonderai Mutambikwa and Magulula were unsuccessful.
Parents are now urging ZACC, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, and Parliament to intervene urgently to ensure accountability and protect the welfare of learners at Danhiko School.
“We cannot allow corruption to take root where the country’s most vulnerable children are meant to be cared for,” the parent added.
