Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
IN a powerful demonstration that academic excellence knows no geographical boundaries, Kotwa High School, from Mudzi District, impressed at the Harare Provincial Debate Competitions.
The school went all the way to the semi-finals of the competition at Samuel Centenary Academy in Belvedere, Harare.
Twenty three schools took part in the competition.
“This achievement reflects the dedication of our learners and the commitment of the school to nurturing talent beyond the classroom,” the headmaster, Mr Makiwa, said.
“As a rural school, we are proud to demonstrate that learners from Mudzi can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best schools in the province.
“Their performance shows that excellence is not defined by location but by effort, discipline and belief.”
He acknowledged the role which was played by Chengeta, a student teacher at Belvedere Technical Teachers College, whose mentorship guided his pupils throughout the preparation process.
“We are grateful for the guidance and mentorship provided by our debate patron, Justice Chengeta, from Belvedere Technical Teachers College.
“His commitment to developing our learners’ confidence and critical thinking has been instrumental in this achievement.
“As the school leadership, we are proud to work alongside passionate educators who believe in the potential of rural learners.”
Kotwa High School finished in fourth place.
In an interview, Chengeta said the achievement carries meaning beyond the results.
“For a school located in one of Zimbabwe’s rural districts, this accomplishment challenges the long-standing perception that debate and other intellectual competitions are dominated by urban schools with greater access to resources and exposure. The learners from Kotwa High School demonstrated that talent, discipline and commitment can flourish in any learning environment.
“Their journey to the semi-finals was not merely about competing – it was about representing the voice and potential of rural education.
“Debate competitions require extensive preparations, participants must research widely, analyse complex social and economic issues, construct logical arguments, and present them persuasively within strict time limits.
“For students coming from rural backgrounds, opportunities to test these skills on large urban stages are often limited. This makes Kotwa High School’s participation, and progress, an important step forward.”
