Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
THE Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerayi Moyo, officially commissioned the newly expanded, state-of-the-art Oakleigh House School in Beitbridge last Friday, as the Government continues to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to enhance service delivery in the education sector.
The new institution is set to offer high-quality education and promote the growth and development of young minds in the region.
Oakleigh House Primary began as Montessori Kindergarten in 2007 and evolved into a full-fledged primary school in 2009, co-founded by Dr Sikhathele Musakwa and her board of directors. Dr Musakwa, a former teacher, has received numerous prestigious national and international awards recognising her achievements as a businesswoman.
In 2022, the centre expanded into a high school and is now proudly registered with both Zimsec and the Cambridge Examination Boards.
With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development and community engagement, Oakleigh House School is poised to become a beacon of learning and innovation in Beitbridge. Its commitment to providing a nurturing environment, experienced educators, and a comprehensive curriculum will empower students to realise their full potential and contribute positively to their communities.
Given Beitbridge’s population of over 100 000, education authorities have stressed the need for at least one primary school per 5 000 residents, highlighting the importance of both public and private sector investment in meeting growing demand.
Oakleigh House head, Mrs Beauty Takaza, said the school’s expansion reflects its dedication to complementing Government efforts in delivering quality and affordable education. She noted that the school now boasts highly qualified and committed teachers serving 42 modern classrooms, some of which are equipped with interactive boards to support digital learning in line with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and Education 5.0.
“We also have state-of-the-art dormitories accommodating 100 students, offering high-quality furnishings and meals in our boarding facilities. Our new administration block includes offices, a strong room, computer lab and boardroom — designed with extensive research and stakeholder input.
“As the private sector, we recognise the importance of providing quality education and have been upgrading our facilities in line with global trends. It is essential that we work together with a shared vision of investing in the future of our children,” said Mrs Takaza.
The minister’s visit was inspired by the school’s impressive academic record.
“Our examination classes have consistently achieved a 100 percent pass rate, and in 2024, we received the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Secretary’s Merit Award for exceptional academic results. Learners come from Beitbridge, Harare, Masvingo, Bulawayo, Gwanda, Chiredzi and South Africa,” she said.
Mrs Takaza said the school has embraced the child-friendly schools concept, establishing play centres for infants, modern sports facilities for tennis and swimming, a fully equipped computer laboratory and a science lab aligned with the Government’s push for Stem education.
“We’re grateful for the support from the Beitbridge community. At the primary level, we have 435 pupils and 68 learners in ECD. We’ve a fully furnished computer room, a science laboratory embracing the Stem concept, and through the school development committee, we are building more sporting facilities,” she said.
“During the Covid-19 era, learners were taught via Zoom, which attracted a significant number of students. When schools officially reopened, we had nearly 600 learners at primary level, although numbers later declined due to the emergence of several illegally opened schools.”
Mrs Takaza also highlighted the school’s commitment to experiential learning through regular heritage site visits and international tours. Learners have visited Malilangwe Resort, Gonarezhou, Victoria Falls, Kariba, Durban, Inyanga and various locations in Cape Town, guided by professionals who provide valuable educational insights.
“What truly sets our school apart is its emphasis on character development. We prioritise values such as empathy, respect and responsibility, shaping well-rounded individuals who positively impact society,” she added.
Oakleigh House managing director, Dr Sikhathele Musakwa, said the institution is forging partnerships with internationally recognised schools to further strengthen its programmes, while the School Development Committee (SDC) continues to mobilise resources for additional infrastructure.
SDC representative Mr Nqobile Ncube, praised the dedication of the teaching staff and the strong collaboration between the school, parents and other stakeholders.
“The expansion and growth of this institution underscores the importance of parents, stakeholders and SDCs in creating a functional ecosystem for the development of the education sector,” he said.
The commissioning of Oakleigh House comes as the Government intensifies implementation of the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, which focuses on teaching, research, community service, innovation and industrialisation. The policy aims to produce graduates equipped with practical skills to drive national development.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, commended Oakleigh House authorities for supporting the Government’s commitment to quality education and academic excellence through character development and innovative learning.
“Learning today is heritage-based, and Oakleigh House has demonstrated its ability to nurture our children into skilled and innovative individuals, as evidenced by the infrastructure we are commissioning today,” said the Minister.
“I am deeply humbled by the collective efforts of the school authorities, the local authority, and the Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in bringing this project to fruition. The addition of another school in the district provides parents and learners with more options and helps ease enrolment pressure on existing schools.”
In his remarks, Minister Moyo said the school’s state-of-the-art buildings, swimming pool, and sports facilities are a testament to the management’s commitment to providing holistic education, aptly themed “The Apex of Achievement.”
“Indeed, when one observes the magnificent structures and the vibrant learning community gathered here, it is clear that this institution has truly reached the apex of achievement in educational excellence. I commend the school’s efforts in establishing such a dynamic learning environment,” he said.
“The modern facilities at Oakleigh House School will play a pivotal role in delivering our Heritage-Based Curriculum 5.0, which places emphasis on innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving. These facilities will provide students with a conducive learning environment that nurtures creativity, teamwork and intellectual curiosity. By integrating these modern amenities with the Heritage-Based Curriculum 5.0, Oakleigh House School is setting a new benchmark for education in our country — one that prioritises innovation, creativity and academic excellence.”
Minister Moyo stated the commissioning of the school marks a significant milestone in the implementation of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which aims to cultivate a skilled and knowledgeable population capable of driving Zimbabwe’s economic growth and prosperity.
He noted that the facilities at Oakleigh House School will bolster the institution’s efforts to produce graduates equipped with the skills and competencies necessary to advance the nation’s development agenda.
“By investing in educational infrastructure, we are investing in the future of our nation. Institutions like Oakleigh House School will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators,” said Minister Moyo.
“The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education recognises the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in addressing the infrastructure deficit in our schools. Through PPPs, we can harness private sector expertise and resources to complement Government efforts in delivering quality education.”
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to constructing 200 new schools this year, while maintaining an open-door policy for private players to regularise their operations.
This collaborative approach, he said, enables the Government to accelerate progress in educational development, expand access to quality, equitable, relevant and inclusive education, and ultimately improve learning outcomes for Zimbabwean children.
“Oakleigh House School’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of dedication and hard work. The school’s growth and achievements serve as an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to continued partnership and collaboration with institutions like Oakleigh House,” he said.
