THERE has been a countrywide outcry over a poor pass rate in the recently released Grade 7 Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec) results. Academics are predicting a similar trend in the yet to be released ‘O’ and ‘A’ Level results. Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education chairperson Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga (PMM) blames the  poor results on government’s neglect of the education sector. She speaks to NewsDay senior reporter Miriam Mangwaya (ND). ND: The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted various sectors in the country and education is no exception. What is the overall outlook of the education system in the country? PMM: The overall outlook of the education system is not looking very good. It is not just about Zimbabwe, but it is a global issue. But particularly in Africa, and in Zimbabwe to be more precise, there has not been physical learning during the lockdown period. However, we also have a legacy problem where the government has not invested enough in education. What has been clear is that over the years, we have had a situation where parents have carried the burden of making sure that the education system is running. Therefore, when resources are not available to parents or when they are struggling economically, generally it will also mean that the sector will struggle. The education sector has been largely funded by parents themselves. There has been very little money that has been put into the education sector by government. Although the budget allocation to the education sector has been increasing over the years, human resources have gobbled a greater share of the budget than has been utilised for infrastructure and other necessities such as textbooks, stationery and other learning aids required by learners. ND: Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, what are the major factors which contribute to poor pass rates? PMM: The major challenge that is being faced by learners and teachers is lack of preparedness. In most instances, issues to do with personal protective equipment have not been addressed. Pupils with disabilities have not been catered for and have been largely excluded during the lockdown. Social distancing was impossible due to over enrolment, hence difficulties in adhering to the World Health Organisation protocols. Yes, government has indicated that it is preparing for the reopening of schools and we welcome the move. Parents really need the physical learning because they cannot afford or cope with home schooling. However, the challenges remain the same, and these are water and sanitation. On another important issue, no resolutions have been made in as far as the issue of teachers’ remuneration which has resulted in an impasse throughout the year 2020, is concerned. Government should address the issue so that when schools reopen, learning will resume under proper functional schools. There is a new phenomenon of urban poverty, and so there is need for critical consideration on where resources should be channelled. ND: Some teachers unions have called on govern