Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
PERCHED quietly in the heart of Mutare, St Dominic’s High School stands tall, not just as a centre of learning, but as a beacon of discipline, academic exuberance and holistic education.
In 2024, the school once again cemented its reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s leading academic institutions – earning both provincial and national – recognition and admiration.
The school, situated in Mutare uptown, has long been regarded as a pillar of
educational excellence, not only in the city, but also across the country.
With a legacy built on deep-rooted Roman Catholic Church values, the school has consistently produced generations of well-rounded learners, who go on to become leaders, innovators, and agents of positive change in their respective communities.
What sets the institution apart is its unwavering commitment to nurturing the whole
child – intellectually, morally, socially, spiritually and physically.
It is a place where academic rigour meets compassionate mentorship – with every
learner challenged to introspect and discover their true potential and worthy.
From the moment one steps onto its tranquil campus, there is a palpable sense of purpose and pride. Classrooms buzz with engaged learners, teachers passionately committed to their calling, and the environment is infused with a sense of respect, unity, and ambition.
St Dominic’s High School has become a model of holistic education – balancing high achievement with humility; tradition with innovation; and structure with encouragement.
In every corner of the institution, from the science laboratories to the sports fields, St Dominic’s High School is shaping the future of Zimbabwe, one learner at a time. At the heart of this achievement lies a strong culture of faith, structure and purpose.
The school head, Mr Jethro Mumbure, an affable and veteran educationist, in an interview, described the Year 2024 as “nothing short of extraordinary.”
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire St Dominic’s High School community for their unwavering support throughout the 2024 academic year. We are proud to announce that our school emerged as the top-performing school in the district (Mutare), producing the best O-Level results, and achieving third position provincially, inclusive of both day and boarding schools.”
The numbers speak volumes – 28 learners scored 15 points and above, up from 15 the previous year at Advanced Level, while 42 candidates achieved five “As” or better at O-Level, making the school a top academic performer in the region.
The school was also awarded the Best Functional Literacy Trophy for 2024, along with 28 gold medals, recognising excellence in academic performance.
The institution is a proud leader of the Second Chance Programme, which gives learners who struggled previously a new opportunity to succeed, with one of the learners achieving five “As” last year through this initiative – a shining testament to the school’s belief that no child should be left behind.
The spirit of excellence at the institution extends far beyond textbooks.
Vincent Penga – a talented athlete – won gold medals in the 100m and 200m sprints at the national level, showcasing the school’s commitment to athletics excellence.
Form One learner, Prince Mutseriwa, recently travelled to the United States of America and competed in the Phillips Exeter Academy Chess Tournament in Boston. He participated in both Under-14 and 17 categories.
Lionel Maoneke, another gifted A-Level learner, presented his Science and Technology
innovation in the United States of America, where he received several accolades
and a scholarship offer.
He scored 15 points in 2024, and is now studying at Massachusetts University in
the USA. He is in his second semester.
The foundation of these successes is discipline, deeply rooted in Catholic values
and a thoughtfully designed management system.
The school follows a thematic approach to discipline and values – each week marked
by a guiding theme.
The school normally has weekly themes that guide the learners, such as, discipline,
best practices for examinations, setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant
and Time-bound (SMART) goals, and school dress code, among others.
These themes are, not mere slogans, but implemented at assemblies, in classroom practices, and daily routines. Learners are encouraged, not only to know what is right – but to live it daily.
The school chaplain and administrator, Reverend Father Johannes Rateiwa, who has helped to transform the institution to greater heights, is grateful to see the learners
growing in faith and knowledge.
“We have just received numerous awards at district level, and I am overwhelmed with pride. These accolades are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence that our learners and teachers embody.
“Our Catholic education is built on integrity and excellence, with compassion at the core. We strive to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of our learners, shaping
them into well-rounded individuals ready to impact society, community, and the world at large,” he said.
Rev Father Rateiwa said the recognition the school has earned is, not just for academic performance, but also for moral strength, social awareness, and spiritual growth.
“As a Catholic school, we are committed to recognising the full potential of every child. We believe in a future built on faith, character, and excellence.
Through the intercession of St Don Bosco, Mother Mary, St Joseph, and all the saints, may God continue to bless our mission,” he said.
