‘Do not send children to pay school fees in town’
By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) has issued a public warning urging parents and guardians not to give children money or send them alone to pay school fees.
The caution was issued through an official statement published on the DPMO’s verified Facebook page, amid heightened movement and congestion at schools and financial institutions during the back to school period.
The DPMO stressed that sending children to handle school fees exposes them to serious risks at a time when many parents are rushing to secure school placements and settle outstanding balances. According to the statement, “Giving or sending children to pay school fees subjects them to danger and unnecessary risk, especially during this busy school opening period.”
The warning comes as thousands of families across the country scramble to finalise school admissions, purchase uniforms and books, and clear fees ahead of the January 27 reopening date.
This period is traditionally characterised by overcrowded school premises, long queues at banks and mobile money outlets, and increased pedestrian traffic, all of which can place children in vulnerable situations.
The DPMO highlighted that children carrying cash can easily become targets of theft, robbery or intimidation. In crowded areas, younger learners may be pushed, separated from guardians or tricked by unscrupulous individuals posing as helpers.
The office further noted that some children may lose money due to confusion, lack of experience or pressure from adults and peers, resulting in financial loss for families and emotional distress for the child.
“Children should not be burdened with responsibilities that put their safety at risk,” the DPMO said in its statement. “Parents and guardians are urged to personally handle school fee payments or make use of safer alternatives.”
Moreover, beyond criminal threats, the DPMO also pointed to road safety concerns. During school opening periods, traffic volumes increase significantly around schools, shopping centres and town areas.
Children moving alone, especially those travelling long distances or crossing busy roads, face a heightened risk of road accidents.
Another concern raised is the possibility of children being exposed to exploitation or abuse while navigating unfamiliar environments alone. The DPMO cautioned that the back to school rush creates opportunities for criminals and opportunists who take advantage of crowded spaces and distracted families.
The office encouraged parents to explore safer payment methods, including accompanying children if their presence is required, paying fees directly at schools themselves, or using electronic and mobile payment platforms where available.
Schools were also urged to cooperate with parents by providing clear guidance on payment procedures to reduce congestion and confusion.
As the reopening date approaches, the DPMO called on communities to work together to protect children.
Parents were reminded that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the home to public spaces during peak periods such as school openings.
The statement concluded with an appeal for calm and planning during the busy season. “While the pressure to secure school places and pay fees is understandable, the safety and wellbeing of children must always come first,” the DPMO said.