Nkulumane High School celebrates 40 years of excellence

NKULUMANE High School yesterday marked its 40th anniversary with a vibrant celebration that included the commissioning of a 72-seater school bus.

As part of the festivities, the school — established in 1985 — hosted a cultural festival featuring poetry and dance performances across various genres, all delivered by its talented students.

In 1998, the school experienced significant infrastructural development, thanks to the Gweru City Council, which donated a science laboratory and electrical infrastructure.

Speaking at the celebrations, the school’s headmistress, Mrs Monica Ncube, expressed her gratitude to the supportive parents who played a pivotal role in financing the construction of several classrooms.

“Over the past 40 years, Nkulumane High School has stood as a beacon of secondary education, driving socio-economic transformation by producing capable alumni who contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

Ncube also highlighted the importance of the school’s history in preserving and promoting culture and heritage.

“Let us not destroy but preserve our culture in its various forms — language, beliefs, thoughts, behaviour, food, and way of life,” she said.

School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, Ms Faith Mukozho, acknowledged the challenges faced on the journey to this milestone, crediting the progress to the collective efforts of successive SDCs, parents, and school administrators.

She paid special tribute to the 2023-2024 SDC, which initiated the school bus project, completed in 2024.

“We would like to thank Vordim Trading and ZB Bank for helping us realise our dream. They have been our pillar of strength. It’s not easy to achieve great things with limited resources, so I encourage parents to pay school fees to help us accomplish even more.

“We have other ongoing projects, including a nutrition garden and palisade fencing. With continued support from parents, these will be completed in no time,” said Ms Mukozho.

Speaking at the same event, Bulawayo Provincial Deputy Director for Secondary and Non-Formal Education, Mr Thabani Sibanda — who was the guest of honour — praised the school’s growth from humble beginnings into a thriving institution that has impacted countless students, families, and communities both within and beyond Bulawayo.

“The newly-acquired bus is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride for our learners. It is also environmentally friendly, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and efficiency.

“As we look to the future, we are excited to embark on new initiatives, explore new frontiers, and continue our tradition of excellence and commitment,” said Mr Sibanda.

He reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to providing world-class education that prepares students for success in an ever-evolving world.

Mr Sibanda noted that the school has fully embraced the Heritage-Based Curriculum and is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4), which focuses on delivering quality education.

He also expressed appreciation to learners, parents, and staff for their tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and passion for teaching and learning.

“To our parents and the wider community, we thank you for your loyalty and support in our mission to educate and inspire. And to our learners — remember, your education is a journey, not a destination. Be curious, be courageous as you navigate your academic path.”