IT was a hive of activity in Harare yesterday as parents and guardians rushed to do last minute shopping of uniforms, stationery and other necessities for their children ahead of schools’ opening on Tuesday.
BY OUR STAFF
Others queued in banks to deposit school fees for their children. One parent who identified himself only as Kingston of Southlea Park said he was caught up in the last minute rush to purchase school items because he did not have the money earlier on.
“I usually do my son’s school shopping during the festive season, but this time around it was difficult for me, I did not manage to do it earlier,” he said.
Many parents were out with their children to complete the school requirements ahead of tomorrow when those in boarding schools leave.
Some excited parents of grade one pupils and form one students said despite facing financial difficulties, they were trying their best to ensure their children were ready for the first day at their new schools.
“My daughter is going for her first day at school at Marlborough primary and I want to get her a complete uniform because it’s a special day for both of us,” said one Cynthia Sagonda.
Another pupil, Grace Matandarike who will be going for form one at Nyadire High school was also excited about her shopping spree. “I am happy because finally I have school shoes, which was the only thing left for me to get,” she said.
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Some parents also said they were out only to get the last few items before starting to pack and escort their children to boarding schools.
Vendors in the city centre were not left out in the rush. Many could be seen on the pavements selling school items like stockings and stationery. They said business was always brisk at this time of the year.
Retail shops also recorded increased sales.
“We have seen many customers coming to buy school bags and other things for school like shorts and t-shirts this weekend”, said an employee at Happy events.
Preparations for the first term of the year are usually the busiest as pupils will be entering new grades and some new schools, requiring new sets of uniforms and stationery.
