Zambia's Education Act 2011 guarantees free basic education in government schools. No pupil can be denied access or expelled for non-payment of fees. Expulsions require written notice, a hearing, and opportunity to respond.
The Education Act No. 23 of 2011 is the principal education statute in Zambia, replacing the Education Act Cap. 134. Key provisions: **Free basic education (s. 4)**: Basic education in government schools shall be free, and no pupil shall be denied access or expelled for failure to pay any fee or levy. The right to basic education is universal. **Disciplinary process (s. 36)**: Before a pupil is expelled, the head teacher must: inform the pupil and parent/guardian of the allegations in writing; provide an opportunity to be heard; and communicate the final decision in writing. Expulsion without due process is unlawful. **Teacher conduct (s. 42)**: A teacher shall not subject any pupil to corporal punishment that is excessive or degrading. Teachers who violate this are liable to disciplinary action by the Teaching Council of Zambia (TCZ). **Inclusive education**: No person shall be denied education on grounds of disability, pregnancy, gender, or any other ground not specified in the Act. Complaints about school fee exclusion, unlawful expulsion, or teacher misconduct can be made to the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) at district level, the Zambia Education Board (ZESB), or the Provincial Education Officer.
A head teacher expels a Grade 9 pupil for non-payment of a school development fund without any prior warning or hearing. Under section 4 and 36 of the Education Act, the expulsion is unlawful. The parents report to the DEBS who orders immediate reinstatement.
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