Online Reporter
Shepherd Chimururi
Youth Interactive Correspondent
The much-anticipated second term Dzidzo Inhaka Computer Science E-sports Junior Pre-Schools and Junior Schools South West vs North East regions finals came to a thrilling conclusion, ushering a new generation of tech-savvy learners.
The event attracted top-performing early learners and juniors from over 43 schools, all of whom displayed impressive skills in computer science e-sports games and coding challenges. The finals were a culmination of weeks of inter-district eliminations that celebrated talent, teamwork, and innovation in education.
In the Super league Pre-Schools division, Connect Kids Junior and Blossom Kids Junior topped the leaderboard in a dramatic tie at 65 points each. Connect Kids Junior dominated with three gold, one silver, and two bronze. Blossom Kids Junior answered with two gold, two silver, and three bronze. They were followed closely by Blessed Little Angels and Little Havard Pre-School at 25 points each. Minnieland Pre-School made their mark with 2 badges, while Avante Preparatory, Eagle Heights, and Lynsfaith Junior each earned 1 silver, and Springdew Junior and Royal Hearts Junior rounded off the group with one badges each.
In the junior school division, Connect Kids Junior dominated the leaderboards, earning an impressive 8 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze medals to claim the regional title. Their consistent excellence in multiple events solidified their position as leaders in computer science e-sports.
A standout moment came from Charles Sambo, a Grade 4 learner at Connect Kids Junior, who, alongside his partner Kyle Katsande, have won a remarkable 9 medals since they began participating in e-sports.
“I am 9 years old and I am in Grade 4. The game I participated in was Basketball Doubles. I felt very happy and proud of ourselves as we have been the reigning champions since 2023.
“E-sport has taught us many lessons, like working with Maths quickly, teamwork, and enhancing our reflexes. We now work out Maths without using a calculator,” said Charles.
Chitungwiza based Royal Hearts Junior followed in second place with 3 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze badges, while Firm Foundation Junior from Karoi beat more fancied urban schools and secured third place with 3 silver and 1 bronze. Other strong showings came from Dawn Academy won 2 silver and 1 bronze while Open Minds Academy scooped 1 silver and 2 bronze. Other schools that grabbed badges included Springdew Junior which got 1 gold and while Avante Preparatory had 1 silver and 1 bronze.
Mukudzeishe Gurende, a 9-year-old Grade 4 learner who earned a gold badge in the Paint Program challenge said, “I felt very proud and happy after winning the gold medal. It really motivated me to keep improving. I learnt how to use the Paint program better and also gained confidence in my computer skills. Participating helped me build teamwork and perseverance,” he said.
In the Premier League Inter-Schools E-sports competitions, Tiny Tots Junior emerged as the undisputed champions in both the Infant and Junior School categories. In the Infant division, Tiny Tots led the scoreboard with an outstanding 3 gold, 6 silver, and 2 bronze medals, showcasing their consistency and depth in digital skills development. Shining Smiles Primary followed closely, claiming 4 gold and 3 bronze medals, while Acacia Junior secured third place with 2 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze. Solid Rock Junior also made a strong showing with 2 silver and 1 bronze.
Shienna Mapfumo, a 7-year-old Grade 2 learner at Tiny Tots Junior, who triumphed in the Speed Round, earning herself a gold medal said with pride, “I was very happy when I won. I didn’t think I could do it at first, but I tried my best and I did it!”
In the Junior School Division, Tiny Tots again topped the rankings with 7 gold and 5 silver medals, underlining their dominance across both age groups. Shining Smiles Ziko came in second with 4 gold, 5 silver, and 8 bronze, demonstrating remarkable breadth in participation. Solid Rock Junior earned 1 silver and 2 bronze, while Shining Smiles Junior Hatfield added to the medal tally with 2 bronze finishes. The results cement Tiny Tots Junior’s status as a powerhouse in early digital literacy and E-sports education. The next competitions will be held next term
