Maria Chiguvari
DARAMOMBE High School is strengthening its focus on skills development, sport and academic excellence to prepare learners for life beyond the classroom.
Speaking at the school’s prize-giving ceremony, headmaster Mr Takatya said the school was embracing the Heritage-Based Curriculum and Education 5.0 to equip learners with practical skills they can use to start their own businesses after leaving school.
He said the school was promoting technical subjects such as Building Technology and Design, Food Technology and Design, Textile Technology, and robotics.
The school has also introduced HEXCO programmes to help learners gain practical skills and qualifications that can improve their chances of becoming entrepreneurs.
“We have included the HEXCO aspect in our system to speed up adoption of certified outcomes that empower our learners to quickly fit into life after school as they will be sharpened to start their own enterprises,” he said.
Takatya said the school also had animal and land husbandry projects to teach learners about agriculture and its importance to Zimbabwe’s economy.
He said that the school was committed to providing a safe learning environment that supports learners’ health, welfare and mental well-being.
The headmaster highlighted that the school has continued to perform well in different competitions, including the Chikomba District Merit Awards, where it won the highest number of trophies and shields.
The school’s Spelling Bee team also made the institution proud after winning a silver medal in competition held in South Africa.
Takatya praised teachers and non-teaching staff for working together to ensure that learners received quality education and support.
He also paid tribute to the Daramombe Old Students Association (DOSA), which provided about 95 percent of the prizes for the ceremony.
He said the association has continued to support the school’s development and expose learners to career opportunities by connecting them with entrepreneurs, professionals, foreign dignitaries and institutions.
The association, led by interim chairperson Mr T Chitsa, has also helped mobilise support for the school and its programmes.
Takatya further thanked the school’s responsible authority, parents, guardians and the School Development Committee for supporting its operations and development.
The guest of honour Hope Marere, representing CBZ Bank, urged learners to work hard, maintain discipline and develop good financial habits as they prepare for the future.
She challenged students to think independently, use technology responsibly, embrace change and continue learning in a world shaped by rapid technological developments.
“One of my message is about the digital world. You are growing up in an extraordinary era.
“Technology has opened doors that previous generations could only dream of. Today, you can access knowledge from some of the world’s leading universities, learn new skills, build businesses and connect with people across the globe — all through a digital device.
“But with this opportunity comes great responsibility.
“Every photograph you post, every comment you make and every message you share contributes to your digital footprint.
“And sometimes, what you put into the digital world can follow you for many years.
“A careless comment today could affect an opportunity tomorrow – whether it is a scholarship, a job or your personal reputation.
“So, I challenge you to be responsible digital citizens. Do not use technology to bully, embarrass or bring others down. Use it to learn, to create, to inspire and to open doors.”
Marere also encouraged learners to start saving early, distinguish between needs and wants, and avoid spending money to impress others.
“Financial success is not determined only by how much money you earn, but also by how wisely you manage what you have,” she said.
She urged learners to protect themselves from online scams and never share their banking PINs or passwords.
Marere also stressed the importance of good behaviour, humility, honesty and respect, saying academic achievements should go hand in hand with good character.
She reaffirmed CBZ Bank’s commitment to its partnership with Daramombe High School, saying the bank valued its role in supporting education and the development of young people.
“At CBZ Bank, we believe that banking goes beyond financial transactions. It is about building lasting relationships, enabling opportunities, empowering communities and supporting the ambitions of the people and institutions we serve.
“We recognise the important role that Daramombe plays in shaping the next generation of leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators.
“We are, therefore, proud to be associated with an institution that shares our belief in excellence, integrity and the pursuit of a better future.”
She encouraged learners to continue working hard while urging those who did not receive prizes to remain focused on their goals.
Marere also rallied the school’s Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examination candidates to approach their examinations with confidence, determination and a positive attitude.
