Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Chemhanza High School, a Methodist institution in Zimbabwe, recently held its annual Speech and Prize Giving Day, celebrating the outstanding achievements of its students, teachers, and staff.
The event was graced by the Education Secretary of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Rev Dr Muzenda, who emphasised the importance of hard work, discipline and right attitude in achieving success.
“To the students, let today be a testament that success is possible for every one of us if we have the right attitude. Success is not always easy but with focus, discipline and faith, dreams come true.
“Education is the key to unlock opportunities and shapes your bright future. Proverbs 22:29 says “do you see someone skilled in their work.
“They will serve before Kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank,” he said.
The school’s academic performance has been impressive, with an Ordinary Level pass rate of 84 percent and 100 percent for Advanced Level in 2024. Several subjects recorded outstanding pass rates, including Biology (98 percent), Business and Enterprise Skills (94 percent), and Computer Science (97 percent).
Chemhanza High School students have excelled in various fields, including sports and other extracurricular activities.
The school’s quiz team won a silver medal at the Methodist Schools Convention, while the electric band and mbira band represented the province at the National Annual Science, Sport, and Arts Festivals (NASSAF) in Mutare.
The school’s Student Development Committee (SDC) has been instrumental in improving infrastructure, including the purchase of solar units for hostels and classrooms, and the acquisition of a twin cab and lorry.
In close collaboration with the school management, the SDC is actively driving several key projects forward like infrastructure improvement, farming projects and the new ploughing project.
The Guest of Honour, Proton Bakers chief sales officer Daniel Chipato congratulated the school on its achievements and emphasized the importance of education, discipline, and character.
He also announced that Proton Bakers had donated bread and soccer kits to the school.
“Chemhanza High School has long been recognized as one of the proud pillars of education in our nation. Its history of producing disciplined, hardworking, and successful young men and women is one worth celebrating.
“In a world that is ever-changing, education remains the most powerful tool to unlock opportunities. I urge every learner present here today to take their education seriously. Academic success without discipline and good character is incomplete.
“True education develops the mind, the body, and the soul. I therefore challenge all learners to uphold values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and patriotism to our beloved Motherland Zimbabwe,” he said.
The school enrolled the youngest Lower Six student in Zimbabwe, one Tadiswa Chimbwanda who turns 14 today.
The school also has a Dynamos junior team player, Tawonga Kurebwaseka.
When it comes to junior parliament business, Chemhanza High School calls the shots, with Alpha Mandiva as Junior Councillor for Ward 2, Hwedza District Council.
There have Panashe Feruka, Councillor, Ward 14 and Chair of the Junior Council.
There is also Tinayeshe Manyere, who has risen through the ranks and is now President of the junior senate.
The Chemhanza head, Mr Chidhindi said the school’s values are stewardship, responsibility, accountability, integrity, team-work and pragmatism
“All this success could not have been possible without the support of our parents, who have always been with us every step of the way. Mr Tigere and your team and all the parents, well done.
“The SDC if doing a splendid job in the school. The merit award would not have been possible without them. As you can see, infrastructure, and vehicles. We are adding another twin cab and lorry in First Term 2026 from the vehicle round with other Methodist schools,” said the school head.
The school is the holder of the Secretary’s Merit Award for 2024. This was bestowed on them by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry on 30 July 2025 at St Francis of Assisi High School.
The SDC chairman, Philemon Tigere said the school’s success is attributed to the support of parents, the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, and various stakeholders.
The SDC has promised to build more staff houses and a multi-purpose hall.
“We are committed to upgrading our classroom facilities, dormitories, and library. Our goal is to create a modern, conducive, and inspiring environment that empowers both teaching and learning.
“Our collaborative farming projects continue to thrive, including our poultry, beef, and dairy operations. We are also reviving fish farming. These initiatives are a testament to practical, sustainable efforts that directly support our learners’ dietary needs and ensure they are well-nourished to focus on their studies,” he said.
Chemhanza High School students have excelled in various fields, including sports and extracurricular activities. The school’s quiz team won a silver medal at the Methodist Schools Convention, while the electric band and mbira band represented the province at the National Annual Science, Sport, and Arts Festivals (NASSAF) in Mutare.
The school principal, Rev Tendai Sithole said: “As we look ahead, I encourage all learners, whether you are receiving a prize today or not, to continue striving for your best. Remember that every effort counts, and every setback is an opportunity for growth.
“Keep believing in yourselves, and aim high above all, remember also the aspect of unhu/Ubuntu. I always say, munhu ne unhu, uye unhu nemunhu azvisiyane.
“Let us celebrate not only the achievements of this year but also the spirit of community and collaboration that makes our school truly special. As Luciano Creschenzo once said, “We are each of us angels with only one wing and we can fly embracing each other.”
Mathew Masinge