DTEF to terminate sponsorships of employed beneficiaries

BABOKI KAYAWE
Staff Writer | Tuesday May 28, 2013 00:00

 

Speaking with Mmegi yesterday, the director of DTEF, Marcos Maedza, said the increasing practice is disturbing because it contributes to the high failure rates at local tertiary institutions. 'This leads to students failing and dropping out of classes because they give only part of their time to studies,' he said, adding that they return later, seeking reinstatements.The DFET has identified 60 students who have been working whilst on government sponsorship in the last six months.

Maedza said academics become a part-time effort for students who are working; something the department is strongly against. In addition, students who fail to attend classes and submit results after every semester will not be spared, as the above also constitute to a breach of the sponsorship contract.'Such a breach may lead to termination of sponsorship without notice,' he emphasised.

Students who are attached at various workplaces for a specific amount of time, learning the practical aspect of their chosen field of study will not be in breach of contract. Maedza would not divulge how the DTEF discovers that a student is employed. 'I won't disclose that because those implicated will use it as ammunition,' he said.