Government has begun a review of the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) manual, with a validation workshop currently underway in Mutare aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and support for vulnerable learners.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare described the exercise as a significant step towards strengthening the support system for disadvantaged children.
“The Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) Manual validation workshop is underway in Mutare. The validation workshop is rewriting the rules of support for vulnerable children,” the ministry said.
The ministry said technical teams involved in the review are focusing on ensuring that the revised manual responds more effectively to current socio-economic realities affecting vulnerable households.
“With selection criteria under sharp review, the technical team is determined to craft a manual that delivers efficiency, fairness and transparency,” it said.
The Ministry noted that the reform process is anchored on the country’s broader development agenda under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which prioritises poverty reduction and universal access to education.
“Anchored in NDS2’s bold priorities of reducing extreme poverty and guaranteeing education for all, this process is more than a technical exercise,” the ministry added.
It added that the ongoing review is aimed at strengthening BEAM into a more responsive and accountable social safety net capable of reaching children most in need.
“It is a promise to transform BEAM into a lifeline that ensures no child, no community and no future is left behind,” the ministry said.
The BEAM programme has over the years played a critical role in supporting vulnerable learners by covering school fees and related costs for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
However, concerns have been raised about targeting inefficiencies, delays in disbursements and inclusion gaps, prompting government to initiate reforms.
The outcome of the workshop will inform a revised operational framework expected to make BEAM more effective, accountable and aligned with national development priorities.
