Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
ACADEMIC brilliance took centre stage in Manicaland last week as top-performing schools and learners were honoured at the inaugural Zimpapers Academic Excellence Achievers Awards.
The event, not only celebrated outstanding results in the November 2025 ZIMSEC examinations, but also underscored the importance of sustained investment in quality education as a pillar of national development.
Stakeholders hailed the awards as a timely initiative that promotes a culture of discipline, hard work, and high standards across the province.
Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abbiott Maronge, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Director for Provincial Coordination, Mr Joseph Mashingaidze, said the awards go beyond recognition.
“The Zimpapers Education Excellence Achievers Awards come as a timely and commendable initiative, serving, not only as a recognition platform, but also as a powerful reinforcement of the tireless efforts of our educators, learners and administrators who continue to demonstrate unwavering commitment to academic excellence,” he said.
He said the initiative motivates schools to strive for improved performance and creates a benchmark for others to emulate.
“This initiative is a noble way of giving back to the community, motivating schools across the province to strive for excellence and to aspire to be among those recognised in future ceremonies,” he said.
Mr Maronge linked the recognition of academic excellence to Zimbabwe’s broader development agenda, noting that education remains central to socio-economic transformation under the National Development Strategy (NDS2) and Vision 2030.
“As outlined in the National Development Strategy (NDS2) and Vision 2030, education remains a key driver of socio-economic transformation,” he said.
He noted that Government continues to prioritise improving access, quality, and relevance of education, while addressing persistent challenges such as infrastructure deficits, teacher shortages, and disparities in rural areas.
“Through initiatives such as the expansion of early childhood education, strengthening teacher training and enhancing ICT integration, the Government is laying a solid foundation for an inclusive quality education system that supports lifelong learning and national development,” he said.
Mr Maronge also commended learners for their discipline and resilience, saying their achievements reflect, not only individual effort, but also the collective commitment of teachers, parents, and communities.
“These awards recognise, not only your academic results, but also your resilience, your determination, and your willingness to support one another in the pursuit of knowledge,” he said.
Chief Director for Provincial Education Services, Mr Richard Gabaza, whose remarks were delivered by schools inspector, Mr Fungayi Mudehwe, said recognising academic excellence is critical in building a competitive and productive society.
“These awards serve as a beacon of inspiration, motivating learners and schools to strive for greatness. By recognising academic achievements, we foster a culture of healthy competition, encouraging institutions to push beyond their limits,” he said.
He added that academic excellence plays a key role in national development by contributing to the creation of a skilled workforce.
“The impact of these awards extends beyond individual recognition. They contribute to the development of a skilled workforce, driving Zimbabwe’s growth and prosperity. By celebrating excellence, we reinforce the value of hard work, discipline, and perseverance,” said Mr Gabaza.
Also addressing the same gathering, The Manica Post Editor, Mr Cletus Mushanawani, said the awards reflect a broader commitment to promote education as the foundation of the country’s future.
“We gather, not only to recognise the best performing schools, but also to reaffirm our collective commitment to education as the cornerstone of our nation’s future,” he said.
He noted that Manicaland has consistently produced strong academic results due to the combined efforts of key stakeholders.
“This consistency is not accidental, it is the product of dedicated teachers, hardworking learners, supportive parents, and communities that value knowledge,” he said.
Mr Mushanawani also highlighted the importance of the Heritage-Based Curriculum in shaping learners who are grounded in local values while remaining globally competitive.
“Education today is guided by the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which seeks to root learning in our culture, values, and identity while preparing learners for global competitiveness,” he said.
Among the top-performing schools honoured at the event was St David’s Bonda Girls High School, which scooped awards in both Advanced Level and Ordinary Level categories, underlining its consistent academic excellence.
School head, Mr Caston Samanga, attributed the school’s success to a strong culture of discipline, teamwork, and high expectations.
“We have maintained a 100 percent pass-rate at all levels for three years now. Our success comes from a combination of factors, including a positive school environment, dedicated teachers, and committed learners,” he said.
He said the school prioritises addressing challenges promptly and fostering a focused learning environment.
“We do not tolerate failure at our school. It has become part of our culture to aim for excellence, and that is reflected in our results year in and year out,” said Mr Samanga.
He added that collaboration among stakeholders remains key to sustaining high performance.
“We are very grateful for the recognition, and we expect to continue performing well with the cooperation of all stakeholders within the education system,” he said.
A learner from the school, Angel Mudangwe, said consistency and discipline are critical for academic success, particularly for young girls aspiring to excel.
“Consistency is very important. When you are focused, you will not settle for less. Education is one of the most important factors that will help you achieve your goals,” she said.
She urged learners to remain committed to their studies and avoid distractions.
“You have to let go of temporary distractions and focus on what will benefit you in the long term. Your books should be your best friend,” she said.
