Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
THE Churchill Alumni Association has started mobilising funds to rebuild Churchill High School’s Winston Hostel, which was destroyed by fire on Monday afternoon.
The initiative has been dubbed ‘From Ashes We Rise.’
Fire engulfed the boarding facility, which houses Form 1 and 2 students. Churchill Alumni Association vice-chairperson, Albertt Mtengwa, said what should have been a year of celebrations, marking 75 years of excellence, brotherhood and tradition, has become a moment that demands unity, compassion and action.
“The fire not only destroyed property but it disrupted the daily rhythm and spirit of boys who had just begun their Churchill journey.With winter upon us, many have lost school uniforms, personal effects and the comforting sense of a space they could call home.
“In the immediate aftermath, a temporary plan is in place to shift the affected students to the remaining hostel, but this is not a sustainable solution,” he said.
As the Churchill Alumni Association, he said, they were heartbroken but not broken.
“Our strength has always been in our solidarity.
“And, in moments like these, we are reminded that legacy is not only built in classrooms and sports fields but in how we show up for each other when it matters most.
“We are mobilising urgently to assist with immediate relief, warm clothing, uniforms, toiletries and essentials for the affected boys (with focus on):
Reconstruction of Winston Hostel to rebuild not just walls but a home full of memories yet to be made.
Restoring dignity and continuity for the Churchill boys affected by this tragedy.
“We invite all alumni, parents, stakeholders, corporate partners, and well-wishers to join this effort, whether in Zimbabwe or abroad.
“This is our call to rise as one, to restore, to rebuild.
“And to remind these young boys that they are never alone because once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog,” said Mtengwa.
The school community has mobilised to support the affected students, where temporary accommodation solutions are being arranged, while plans for reconstruction take shape.
Counselling services have been made available to traumatised students.
The rapid spread of the fire resulted in significant personal losses for boarding students. The flames consumed school uniforms, bedding materials, storage containers and other personal effects, before evacuation could be completed.
Firefighters responded promptly to the emergency call and successfully contained the flames within thirty minutes of arrival.
