Pupils at Tsakare Secondary School in Mt Darwin Constituency are enduring serious learning disruptions as illegal gold panning activities intensify within the school premises, investigations by this publication have revealed.
The illicit mining operations, taking place dangerously close to classrooms and the main road, have raised alarm among parents, teachers, and local residents — especially as Form Four students are currently sitting for their final examinations.
Investigations conducted by this publication indicate that the illegal gold panning is being spearheaded by the school’s headmaster, Mr. Chimombe, his deputy, Mr. Mangoro, and one Mr. Gavha, who is reportedly managing the mining operations.
Reliable sources further revealed that the mining venture is not registered with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.
It is understood that sometime ago, Mr. Chimombe attempted to register the mine in his personal name with the assistance of one, Mr. Gondo, but the process failed due to lack of proper documentation and authorisation.
A number of teachers at the school, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation, expressed concern over the illegal operations and the adverse impact they are having on both staff and students.
“We are being exposed to dust and noise every day, yet we are not benefiting in any way from these mining activities. It has become impossible to conduct lessons smoothly because of the noise from the grinding mills and the frequent movement of artisanal miners,” lamented one teacher.
Students who spoke to this publication echoed similar frustrations, saying the ongoing mining has disrupted their focus during lessons and examinations.
“Sometimes we can’t even hear what the teacher is saying because of the noise from the mining area. Even during exams, the disturbances make it very hard to concentrate,” said a Form Four student.
The mining pits, reportedly dug within the school yard and near the main road, have also raised safety concerns as they pose a danger to learners who move around the premises during breaks and after classes.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Mr. Chimombe and his deputy were unsuccessful, as their mobile phones went unanswered at the time of publication.
Authorities from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development are yet to comment on the matter, although community members have since called for immediate intervention to stop the illegal operations and restore a conducive learning environment at Tsakare Secondary School.
