Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura, Zimpapers Reporter
GIFFORD High School last Friday honoured its outstanding learners and teachers during a colourful Speech and Prize-Giving Day, held at the boys-only institution along Matopos Road in Bulawayo.
The event, attended by parents, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education officials, school inspectors and partner organisations, showcased the school’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic learner development.
Top-performing learners from Form One to Six were individually recognised for their achievements across various subjects, while teachers were also rewarded for producing impressive results in their classes.
School headmistress, Mrs Bongai Dewa, said Gifford High continued to offer a wide range of academic, technical and practical subjects, recording an 88 percent pass rate at A-level last year and 25 percent at O-level. However, she appealed to parents to prioritise timely payment of school fees to ensure smooth operations.
“Please note that the school requires the prompt payment of fees in full before the beginning of each term. Non-payment affects the performance of learners, as they are not adequately prepared for examinations,” she said.
Beyond academics, the school has also excelled in sports. This year, the Under-17 rugby team represented Bulawayo at the National Competitions in Chinhoyi, finishing second, while the Under-14 team also qualified to represent the province. In soccer, the Under-15 side represented Bulawayo in Mutare.
Mrs Dewa noted that the school had also made strides in discipline, thanking parents and teachers for shaping the boys into responsible citizens.
Guest of honour and former learner, Mr Msindazwe Ndlovu, pledged to donate US$4 000 annually to the school’s rugby team in recognition of their success. He also committed to helping solarise the borehole to improve water supply for the school grounds.
Reflecting on his journey as a Gifford alumnus, Mr Ndlovu encouraged learners to live with integrity, pursue purpose, and build a lasting legacy.
“It feels special to stand here today because several years ago, I was right where you are, in these chairs, wearing this uniform, dreaming about the future. I come here today as a brother, and I want to leave you with three things: honour, purpose, and legacy,” he said.
Founded in 1927, Gifford High School is one of Bulawayo’s oldest boys-only schools. Originally established as Bulawayo Technical School, it was renamed in honour of Colonel Charles M Gifford, who played a key role in its development. Over the years, the institution has produced influential leaders in Government, business, academia and sport.
The school has 612 pupils — including 27 boarders — and 48 staff members. It continues to build on its legacy of academic, sporting and cultural excellence, contributing significantly to Bulawayo’s reputation.
