Parents and learners are preparing for their return to class by shopping for school uniforms and stationery.

As our news team reports, shops were buzzing as families made their final purchases.

Back-to-school shopping usually starts at the end of November and continues into the first two weeks of December, when prices are often reduced.

The supervisor at Waltons, Chiquita Feris, said more customers are currently buying books.

Feris noted that this period is always hectic, but from February onwards, sales tend to decline.

“Last term, regarding stationery, some learners could not get places, and parents were still waiting for government’s confirmation for placement for Grade One and Grade Eight learners,” she said.

Shops selling school uniforms were also busy.

One parent, Imanuel Kupembona highlighted the financial pressure parents face, especially at the beginning of the year.

“It’s back-to-school reality. Shoes are expensive, and children also need food for school. We cannot buy everything at once,” he said.

Some parents, however, prepared early, with school fees already paid in November.

One such parent is Aina Kakonda, who believes in planning ahead.

“As a parent, you need to have a management mindset already in January. You should have an account for stationery or have savings set aside.” 

Another parent, Panduleni Shikwaya, highlighted that “we don’t feel the pressure in January anymore. We are used to it year by year, and we do most of the spending in advance. The books are already at home; it’s just small items like sharpeners and other minor things.”