Story by Blessing Kufantenganji
THE back-to-school rush has intensified across Harare as parents make last-minute preparations ahead of the reopening of schools for the first term of 2026 next Tuesday.
With the festive season now over, attention has shifted to purchasing school uniforms, stationery and learning materials, as families work to ensure a smooth start to the academic year.
Retail outlets in the central business district and surrounding suburbs have recorded increased activity, with parents steadily flocking to shops offering affordable school supplies.
Parents said early planning and disciplined spending during the festive season had helped ease the financial pressure associated with school reopening.
“We managed to buy books because we planned ahead,” one parent said. “If you prepare early, the costs become manageable.”
Another parent said saving during the festive period had been key. “We knew January was coming, so we avoided overspending during Christmas and focused on school requirements.”
Some parents also said they were deliberately seeking out cheaper outlets to stretch limited budgets amid ongoing economic pressures.
Meanwhile, retailers welcomed the surge in business, describing the back-to-school period as one of the most important trading windows of the year.
“Business is flowing smoothly, parents are coming in numbers to buy school wear and supplies,” a retailer added.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has confirmed that schools nationwide will reopen for the first term of 2026 next Tuesday.
