A 12-year-old student at Chogugudza Primary School in Domboshawa, who was suspended for refusing to cut her hair due to religious beliefs, has been reinstated following a successful legal intervention.
The student was barred from school on January 9, 2024, despite being in preparation for her Grade Seven final examinations. Her guardians sought assistance from the Zimbabwe Human Rights Lawyers (ZLHR), who challenged the school’s decision.
Kelvin Kabaya, a lawyer from ZLHR, addressed the school and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, arguing that the expulsion violated the student’s constitutional rights, including freedom of religion, thought, and opinion as enshrined in Section 60 of the Constitution. He also cited breaches of the right to education under Section 75 and the Education Amendment Act, 2020, which prohibits discrimination based on religious beliefs.
Kabaya issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding the student’s readmission, warning of legal action if the school failed to comply. In response, the school promptly reinstated the student, allowing her to resume her lessons.
This case highlights the ongoing debate over religious freedoms and school policies in Zimbabwe’s education system.
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