Online Reporter
Youth Interactive Writer
Nine pupils from a Highfield-based King’s Primary School excelled well at the National Institute of Allied Arts Literary Competitions, which were held this week in Harare.
The main objective of the competition is to build up a knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the arts by affording people, mainly school children, the opportunity to participate and perform in the fields of music, speech, drama, literature and art.
The National Institute of Allied Arts (NIAA), which has hosted four annual festivals — Vocal and Instrumental (Eisteddfod), Speech and Drama, Literary and Visual Arts — began its life in 1913 as the Rhodesian Eistedffod, describing itself as a “Society for the Advancement of Music and the Arts”.
The first festival was held on the May 12, 1913, in Bulawayo
The nine pupils from King’s School who participated, among other pupils were Charlene Razemba, who was awarded an Honours, while both Tafara Chiripinda and Giana Mokgatla received a First Grade each.
Others are Leora Gambanga, Cherish Madosi, Kimberly Matare, Hazel-Grace Chininga, Mia Chiripinda and Lily Gambanga, who were all awarded Third Grade plus.
“We are incredibly proud of you all. The future of literature is bright. Congratulations to our junior learners who shone at the National Institute of Allied Arts Literary Competitions.
“Special mention to Charlene Razemba for achieving honours, Tafara Chiripinda and Giana Mokgatla for getting First Grade.
“We are proud to nurture the next generation of authors, playwrights, and journalists. Keep writing, creating, and inspiring,” the King’s School said in a statement.
In June, some of the pupils participated at Prince Edward School for the National Institute of Allied Arts Speech and Drama competition, where Charlene Razemba and Simbarashe, both received a distinctions while Merit: Adel Kamunda, Hailey, Kimberly and Giana were awarded with a merit.
The National Institute of Allied Arts is well-known and has been active in Zimbabwe for more than 100 years.
“In the past few years, following the COVID-19 pandemic, our interaction with schools has seen huge growth. More and more schools from around the country have entered the four Festivals held throughout each year and we are grateful for the dedication and support of teachers, parents and students.
“We are also continually grateful for the support of our corporate partners, which allows us to offer a platform for students to participate in their chosen field, be it music, theatre, creative writing or art,” the Institute said.
