Matheus David 

It is that time of the year again when parents must fork out hundreds of dollars to send their children back to school. However, the festive season walks away with half of some parents’ December earnings, and many carers are preparing stationery for their children. The pressure is mounting on teachers as they resume on 8 January 2026 and learners are expected to commence next week Monday. 

As a tradition, stationery lists were issued to learners before the holiday, and it is now time for parents to tick the boxes and buy the necessary items for their children. Workers at Pep stores, Game, Waltons, Jet, Shoprite, and uniform designers said January is marked by long queues, constant phone calls, and learners pushing trolleys. 

New Era caught up with Elise Ndafelai, a teacher, who said it is not easy to buy stationery for many children in January. “As a parent, I prepare in advance. I find it better to cover half of the stationery throughout the year, as problems are many. Earlier is better than preparing late. This saved me from draining, as there are still school registration fees that need to be paid,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Maria Heita, a parent, said that despite lower prices allocated to learning materials, parents with little income still struggle, as some stationery prices go higher depending on the grade. “Imagine buying Pine Gel and floor polish for more than two children. This is not just money spent, but parents must use the last coin to ensure that the remaining money from the festive season is invested in the future of our children,” she said. 

Additionally, Ndafelai also commented on the role of teachers and encouraged learners to pay attention in class, study hard, and respect everyone, as respect takes people far. “Parents do not only give you lunchboxes and buy uniforms and books for free; they need learners to take education seriously and refrain from rushing into worldly things,” she said. 

“I am so nervous but quite delighted that I have made it to grade 11. I felt much less confident when I thought deeply about how my new school will look. I can imagine swallowing bitter words like ‘newcomer’, but I am ready to face the academic journey together with new subjects,” said Fillemon Hangula, a learner. 

-matheusshitongenidavid@gmail. com