daniel chigunwe
Tendai Gukutikwa
Mutare Bureau
Eight schools in Manicaland were celebrated on Thursday with the prestigious Secretary’s Merit Awards for the years 2021 to 2024, recognising their consistent excellence in education delivery and innovation.
The awards ceremony took place at First Class High School in Mutare, where the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Mr Moses Mhike, presented the accolades.
Mr Mhike expressed pride in the schools’ achievements, particularly their innovative approaches.
“These institutions have demonstrated outstanding commitment in fields such as STEM education, vocational training, the home-grown school feeding programme, and income-generating projects that support both the school and the community,” he said.
The schools honoured with the awards include, Mutare Junior School, Tsanzaguru Primary School, Nyamhuka Primary School, Mt Melleray Primary School, First Class High School, Mt Selinda High School, Kriste Mambo High School and Sakubva 1 High School
Mr Mhike detailed the specific accolades for each school over the four years.
Nyamhuka Primary and Kriste Mambo High School were recognised for the year 2021 for their commercial units that enhanced school revenue and food security while providing hands-on learning opportunities.
Tsanzaguru Primary and Sakubva 1 High School received awards for the year 2022 for their contributions to foundational and technical education, respectively.
Mutare Junior and Mt Selinda High School excelled in 2023 for their achievements in STEAM education and measurable academic success.
In 2024, Mt Melleray Primary and First Class High School were acknowledged for their academic performance, infrastructure development, and entrepreneurial ventures.
The Secretary’s Merit Award is a benchmark for excellence in Zimbabwe’s education sector, recognising schools that excel in delivering quality education, promoting good governance, and nurturing a holistic learning environment.
Each year, 10 primary and 10 secondary schools are awarded based on various performance indicators, including academics, commercial ventures, infrastructure, and pupil well-being.
Mr Mhike said these awards reflect the innovation and commitment present in Manicaland’s schools.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abbiott Maronge, Mr Simon Sigauke praised the schools for their resilience and dedication to educational advancement.
“Education is a critical enabler for our provincial and national development. The hard work of our teachers, the discipline of our learners, and the support of our communities make this possible,” he said, urging other schools to aspire to the standards set by the award winners.
Delivering a speech on behalf of the winning schools, Mutare Junior School’s headmaster, Mr Muzi Gwishiri, said that the award symbolises the tireless efforts of all stakeholders in the education process.
“We are honoured to be recognised among Zimbabwe’s finest institutions. This award is not just for leadership; it’s for the collective vision and effort of learners, teachers, parents, and our school development committees,” he said.
The Secretary’s Merit Awards serve not only to recognise the achievements of these eight schools but also to inspire ongoing improvement and excellence in education across Manicaland and beyond.
As these institutions continue to thrive, they set a powerful example for the future of Zimbabwe’s educational landscape.
Online Reporter