ZANU PF Chief Whip and Gutu South Member of Parliament, Honourable Pupurai Togarepi, has pledged strong support for teachers affiliated with the Teachers for ED movement, announcing efforts to help them access affordable housing.
Addressing teachers and school heads during a business engagement meeting held at Maungwa Secondary School on Saturday, Hon Togarepi said the initiative was aimed at improving the living conditions of teachers who support the ruling party.
“Teachers get their salaries from Government, but it is our duty to take care of them. Teachers for ED are comrades, and comrades have each other’s backs,” he said.
He emphasised that beyond salaries, the welfare of educators especially those aligned with the party should be a shared responsibility, particularly in areas such as housing, which remains a major challenge for civil servants across the country.
“If a teacher comes to me with struggles to send a child to university, I would go as far as selling Mai Togarepi’s clothes to raise the funds,” he added, drawing applause and laughter from the crowd.
The affordable housing plan, which will see teachers benefit from access to low-cost residential stands, is part of a broader effort to recognise and reward teachers’ contributions not only to education but also to national development.
Educators welcomed the announcement, noting that many of them continue to struggle with accommodation issues despite their critical role in society.
“This is a welcome move. We appreciate the support and look forward to seeing the plan implemented fairly,” said one teacher who attended the meeting.
Togarepi urged teachers to remain focused and united, describing them as “an essential pillar” in both education and the party’s community outreach.
The meeting comes amid growing calls across the country for improved welfare and working conditions for teachers.
As the initiative takes shape, teachers in Gutu South and beyond will be watching closely, hopeful that the promises made will translate into tangible improvements in their daily lives.
