Abstract: Corruption is defined by Transparency international (TI) as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Corruption is a constant global phenomenon, which has become more complex and pervades every facet of our human life. It is more so amongst those living in developing countries, particularly emerging economies such as Zimbabwe, Nigeria & RSA. The acts of corruption in the cited countries directly or indirectly have a big knock down effect on their education systems. The acts of corrupt activities carried out by public office bearers in these countries contest the basic principles of these countries as enshrined in their respective supreme law of the land (Constitution), such as freedom and security for everyone and democracy. The aim of this article to illustrate how corruption can affect the education systems. This paper will endeavour to give an education specific definition of corruption to advance accountability and transparent leadership, establishing the degree to which corruption has infiltrated, manifested and contaminated the public education sector. As an indicator of corruption, stakeholders can be asked questions regarding the perceived levels of overall irregularities in the education sector. And areas that are mostly prone to embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, and corrupt decision-making processes, for example through the influence of external actors who are politically connected with regard to a number of decisions such as procurement of teaching and learning materials, educator appointments etcetera. Based on the questions raised, scores can be calculated to measure the perceived levels of malpractices and corruption in the different relationships.
The article is a desktop qualitative research mainly based on a review of documents and analysis of existing literature both primary and secondary sources. The findings demonstrate that corruption affects the education sector negatively. In the light of the findings, the paper proffers recommendations on how the scourge of corruption can be curbed. The recommendations help to develop an accountability model for Zimbabwe. The model will assist in the achievement of transparency and development and ultimately combat corruption in Zimbabwe.
Keywords: corruption; kleptocracy, misappropriation, mismanagement, abuse, moral leadership, accountability.
Title: HOW CORRUPTION HAS AFFECTED THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN ZIMBABWE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
Author: HERBERT MOYO
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3164 (online), ISSN 2348-3156 (Print)
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