In a letter seen by H-Metro and addressed to parents, the
school learners with outstanding fees will not be released at the end of the
term.
This means they will remain at the school premises
throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays until the balance has been
settled.
The fees include top-ups for both the June-August online
lessons and additional days for the last term, which was recently extended.
The school, which is among the most expensive in the
country, claims it advised parents of its stance in the November 19th reminder.
“We have observed that you still have not yet paid in full
your fees for the June-August online lessons as well as the additional days’
fees since our last reminder on the 19th of November, 2021.
“Please note that all students with outstanding fees will
remain at school over Christmas holiday until their parents pay up,” reads part
of the controversial memo.
“If you wish to pay in cash you may do so at the school
premises on closing day and also at our Masvingo town office…
“If you have already made the payment may you please email
us the proof of payment so that we may update your child’s account.
“Please treat this communication with the seriousness it
deserves.”
With public schools expected to close today, concerns have
been raised over the threats and whether the school has the powers to detain
pupils.
Riverton Academy’s managing director, Elvas Mari who is
also mentioned in the letter as the contact person, was not available for
comment yesterday.
Mari claimed he was travelling and was not in any position
to share any further information.
A legal expert, Brighton Pabwe, said the parents had a
right to sue if the detentions goes ahead.
“This is clearly unlawful. The school can approach the
court for unpaid fees because the contract is between the institution and the
parents.
“The parents can also report the matter to the police as
any detention beyond the day the school is closed can border on kidnapping,”
said Pabwe. H Metro
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