Education Minister Warns Schools Against Sending Pupils Home Over Toilet Paper

Douglas Syakalima, the Minister of Education, has warned school administrators against sending pupils home for failing to provide toilet paper in public schools, stating that the practice is not mandatory.

‎Speaking in the National Assembly of Zambia yesterday, Mr. Syakalima emphasized that public schools receive government grants to cover operational needs, including the purchase of essential supplies such as toilet paper.

‎“This should not happen in any public schools because they are given grants to manage their needs,” he said.

‎The minister cautioned that any school administrators found sending pupils away or compelling them to bring toilet paper would face disciplinary action.

‎He further urged parents to report such incidents to the Zambia Police Service or to District Education Boards (DEBS), stressing that contributing toilet paper is not a requirement for learners in public schools.