dyton mupawaenda
Maria Chiguvari
YESTERDAY, All Souls High School launched its Centenary Celebrations, kickstarting a range of activities over the next four months that will climax with the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the school’s founding.
Celebrating 100 years of existence through prayer, knowledge and service, the grand event featured officials from the school, the Archdiocese of Harare secretariat, the local responsible authority and the former students’ body and the fund-raising efforts will drive the 100th anniversary legacy project, which will be held on November 2.
Education Secretary Archdiocese of Harare, Sister Claris Gowo, said the milestone would not have been possible without dedicated teachers and staff.
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us also express our gratitude to the dedicated teachers and staff who have tirelessly nurtured and guided our students over the years.
“They are the heart and soul of our school and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their unwavering dedication and passion.
“To the students, you are the reason we are gathered here today. You are the torch-bearers of our legacy and the hope for a brighter future.
“As you move forward on your educational journey, remember the values that have been instilled in you — values of integrity, compassion and service.
“Harness your knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the world, to be agents of change, and to live lives of purpose and meaning,” she said on behalf of the Archbishop.
Local responsible authority, Rev Father Upenyu Tawonei, said:
“As we celebrate the centenary, we must remember the visionaries who laid the foundation of this institution, those who believed in the power of education and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities, the Marian Hill missionary fathers. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their unwavering dedication and foresight in establishing this mission school. They were coming to Rukau as an outstation from St Benedict’s Mission in the Manicaland province now Mutare Diocese.
“As we look to the future, we must recognise our responsibility to carry forward the legacy of this mission school. We are the torch bearers entrusted with the task of upholding the values that have been the bedrock of this institution for a hundred years.
“Each one of us has a role to play in ensuring that the light of knowledge continues to shine bright within these hallowed halls. Our responsibility extends beyond academic excellence. We must strive to be compassionate citizens, empathetic leaders, and active participants in building a better society,” he said.
School Headmaster, Felix Shoko, said the 100 years is a testimony to the school’s commitment to excellence.
“This milestone is a testament to our rich history, our resilience, and our commitment to excellence.
“We are excited to be turning 100 this year, and we are going full out.
“Over the past century, we have witnessed transformation, innovation, and growth,” he said.
The vision, envisaged by Father Ebner, Marrian Hill missionary, in 1924, is continuing to find its fruition today and in the future as All Souls, now a system, shall continue to enrol and teach students.
In 1924, the school started in very humble and trying conditions.
The Marrian Hill missionaries were resident in Headlands, Chendambuya, at St Benedict Mission.
The Missionaries combined Evangelism with schooling.
The Marian Hill priests moved to Bulawayo.
We have seen generations come and go, each leaving their mark on our journey. We have faced challenges and overcome them, emerging stronger and more united.
As we reflect on our past, we honour the visionaries who laid the foundation, the pioneers who paved the way, and the countless individuals who have contributed to our success.
A few in the teaching fraternity deserve mention though, and these are but not exhaustive:
• Mr Matedza
• Mr Dennis Kaseke
• Mr Wifred Kapikinyu
• Mr Oscar Kapikinyu
• Mr John Makwembere
• Mr Christopher Kabasa
• Mr Alois Shongande
• Mr Alois Chimhanda
• Mr Issac Kanyemba
• Mr Kudzange
• Mr Bvukumbwe
• Sr Romana Donato
• Mr Mushayavanhu
• Mrs Mutandwa
• Sr Mashanda
and on the helm, Felix Shoko.
Challenges
The school faces some challenges as it approaches 100 years. The infrastructure needs a facelift. The roofs need to be redone, there is need for painting. The school enrolment is low, at 528. There are so many students who fail to be enrolled on account of unavailability of boarding space.
The water supply remains a pipe dream until a 7 km line is erected so as to make the mission stable in water supply.
The school is confident that the alumni community will embrace some of these challenges and make All Souls High the best learning hub in the province and nation.
Online Reporter