Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala, [email protected]
AT a time when many schools are still adjusting to the new curriculum, Milton High School is charting a different path — one marked by academic excellence, sporting achievement and bold income-generating innovation.
Headmaster, Mr Similo Ncube, says the institution has reached an academic milestone not achieved in more than two decades.
“We are excited that we have reached an 89 percent pass rate, something that has not been achieved in the past 20-plus years. But that is not our final target. We want to go beyond 100 percent. After achieving 100 percent, we focus on quality. Quality is essential,” he said.
The renewed academic drive has been complemented by the introduction of new learning areas such as Computer Studies, Crop Science and Physical Education at Advanced Level, broadening opportunities for the school’s 558 learners in an increasingly competitive education landscape.
Surrounded by other colleges, Milton is not only competing academically but also asserting itself as a sporting powerhouse.
Lower Six pupil Aleck Vhovha recently made history after clearing 2,10 metres at a junior competition in Francistown, Botswana, setting a new Under-20 record.
“It was a tight competition, but I managed to pull through. I am travelling to Pretoria, South Africa, for another competition and I am confident I will perform to my best potential,” said Vhovha.
The school, through its alumni network, has mobilised resources to support Vhovha’s trip — a demonstration of what Mr Ncube calls the power of old boys.
“If they are organised, they can make a very big difference. The money for this trip was sourced by our old boys and that co-operation is valuable to us,” he said.
Milton’s sporting success extends beyond the high jump.
Upper Sixth learner Brighton Mpofu is currently ranked number two nationally in squash. He has dominated the Matabeleland tournament for two consecutive years and recently advanced from a bronze medal to a silver at national level.
The school has also produced national representatives in cricket and hockey, with four players making it into national hockey structures. Its athletics team continues to excel at provincial level, with hopes of increased representation this year.
Sports director, Mr Bothwell Kurauvone, confirmed that Milton will host a major rugby festival on 2-3 April 2026, further cementing the institution’s growing reputation as a sporting hub.
Beyond the classroom and playing fields, Milton is investing in sustainability and self-reliance.
After years of crippling water shortages — which at times forced the school to buy water and endure up to 72 hours without supply — the situation has improved significantly, unlocking new possibilities.
With reliable water now available, the school has launched several income-generating projects.
A fish farming initiative currently holds 2 200 tilapia, projected to reach around 12 000 units by July. A poultry project is running alongside it, expected to yield similar returns within the same period.
In partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and supported by Dr Preacherd Donga Dayise Tree Nursery, the school is developing a fruit orchard with more than 200 trees — including guavas, apples and mangoes — with the first harvest anticipated within six months.
“We are doing this so that we open income streams for the school and the money will be used to improve infrastructure, learning materials and facilitate sporting activities,” said Mr Ncube.
The headmaster acknowledged that although infrastructure rehabilitation remains costly, steady progress is being made through painting, electrification and collective support from stakeholders.
With academic ambition, sporting excellence and entrepreneurial innovation converging on one campus, Milton High School is not merely sustaining its legacy — it is building a future in which learners are empowered to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
