In a courageous move, a determined teenager dragged her father to the Harare Magistrates Court seeking financial assistance for her educational needs. Heather Mabvira, the young petitioner, accused her father, Justin Mabvira, of refusing to contribute towards her tuition fees.
During the court proceedings before Magistrate Ayanda Dlamini, Heather revealed that she required a monthly sum of US$120 to cover the costs of extra lessons, stationery, and bus fare, essential for her educational progress. Heather emphasized her father’s responsibility to provide for her additional educational requirements, considering she was still attending school.
In response, Justin Mabvira argued that he could only afford to contribute US$30 per month. He cited his obligations towards his other children and deemed Heather’s claim of US$120 as exorbitant. Justin further explained the challenges he faced at work due to attending to various cases involving Heather, her mother, and siblings, which had even put his job in jeopardy.
After careful consideration of the circumstances, Magistrate Dlamini ruled that Justin Mabvira should pay US$30 per month towards his daughter’s educational expenses. While it fell short of Heather’s initial claim, the court recognized the financial constraints faced by the father and attempted to strike a balance between the parties involved.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of parental support for a child’s education and highlights the challenges faced by families in meeting such obligations.
