Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
BOARDING school pupils in Bulawayo returned to school on Monday ahead of the start of the second term, with parents and guardians urging learners to stay focused on their studies and avoid drug and substance abuse.
Bus termini and pick-up points were filled with emotional farewells as parents loaded trunks and luggage while learners prepared for the new school term.
Many pupils expressed determination to improve their academic performance and maintain discipline.
“My goal is to make my parents proud by studying hard,” one learner said.
Another pupil added: “What I am going to do differently this term is to minimise play time because this is a term for shaping up symbols for the final term.”
Parents and guardians used the final moments before departure to encourage children to prioritise education and stay away from harmful behaviour.
“I sat my two sons down yesterday and told them to take their studies seriously,” a parent said.
A guardian caring for her granddaughter while the child’s parents are abroad said: “We were having a little chit-chat just now, encouraging her to go and make me proud.”
Concerns over rising drug and substance abuse among youths also featured prominently during the send-offs.
“My advice is simple. At a time when most youths are being affected by drugs, they should know that drugs destroy lives. I told my son that his biggest friend at school should be his books,” another parent said.
As buses departed for schools across the country, parents and pupils were left balancing emotions of excitement, anxiety and hope for a productive term ahead.
