Tinotenda Hove -The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has accused the Government of abandoning educators after the sudden death of a teacher in Masvingo Province, describing the tragedy as a consequence of what it calls a broken remuneration system.

In a statement issued on 01 March 2026, ARTUZ said it was “deeply shocked and heartbroken” by the passing of Madam Mandizvidza, a teacher at Chikato Government School in Masvingo.

“We have received reports that the late educator had been in distress over the continued erosion of salaries and the non-payment of ZIMSEC allowances. Before her death, she was reportedly in tears over the financial hardships she was facing. She tragically collapsed and passed away,” the union said.

While refraining from detailing the circumstances surrounding her collapse, ARTUZ linked her distress to ongoing financial challenges faced by teachers across the country.

“As ARTUZ, we categorically state that this is not an isolated incident but it is the painful consequence of a broken remuneration system that has pushed educators into extreme psychological and economic distress,” the union said. “When teachers are overworked, underpaid, and denied their rightful allowances, the State becomes complicit in the suffering that follows.”

The union said it was mourning not only a dedicated professional but what it termed “a victim of systemic neglect.”

“No educator should die worrying about unpaid salaries and allowances. No teacher should be reduced to tears because of government indifference,” ARTUZ said.

The union extended condolences to the teacher’s family, colleagues, learners, and the wider Masvingo community, adding that it stands in solidarity with educators facing similar hardships.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, colleagues, learners, and the Masvingo community at large. We stand in solidarity with all teachers who continue to endure exploitation and humiliation in the line of duty,” the statement read.

ARTUZ called on authorities to urgently address teachers’ remuneration concerns, clear all outstanding payments related to the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC), and restore dignity to the profession.

“An injury to one is an injury to all,” the union declared, adding the call for “Justice for Teachers.”