Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Ashley Phiri, ashleyphiri66@gmail.com
ST Columba’s High School in Bulawayo is basking in the glow of academic excellence, having achieved an impressive 98,31 percent pass rate in the 2024 Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) Ordinary Level examinations.
This remarkable feat underlines the school’s ambition to be the premier educational institution in Bulawayo.
The school has consistently delivered outstanding results, maintaining a streak of high pass rates over recent years. In 2023, St Columba’s achieved a 98,81 percent pass rate, while in 2022, the pass rate stood at 98,18 percent for O-level examinations.
This year’s success follows another significant milestone, which is a 100 percent pass rate at Advanced Level, celebrated just last week.
The school headmaster, Reverend Canon Albert Ncube said the achievements are a testimony to the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers.
“We believe in the future, that is our school motto. It encapsulates our holistic approach to education. Every decision we make is influenced by how it will impact our learners’ futures,” he said.
“This philosophy has been instrumental in helping us cultivate an environment where academic success is not just a goal but a shared mission.”
Among the 175 students who sat for the 2024 O-level examinations, only three did not attain the coveted five O-levels. Reverend Ncube reassured stakeholders that these students are focused on practical and vocational training and are awaiting results from the Higher Education Examinations Council of Zimbabwe (Hexco).
“I am not worried about the students who did not attain the five O-levels because they excel in their practicals and are awaiting Hexco results. Our Vocational Technology Centre plays a crucial role in supporting students who may struggle academically, allowing them to gain valuable skills and certificates while still in school,” he said.
The Vocational Technology Centre, run in partnership with Bulawayo Polytechnic, offers practical training in various technical fields, including car maintenance, machine shop practices and design. This initiative not only equips students with workforce-ready skills but also fosters a sense of achievement and self-worth for those pursuing non-traditional academic paths.
St Columba’s High School also emphasises the importance of a well-rounded education, offering a diverse range of sports and extracurricular activities. Students can participate in athletics, soccer, volleyball and basketball, ensuring balanced development of both mind and body.
St Columba’s prides itself on its inclusive admission policies, welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds. This open-door approach aligns with the school’s vision of fostering an environment where every learner can thrive, regardless of their starting point.
Reverend Ncube also highlighted the role of discipline and Christian values in the school’s success.
“We insist that students maintain discipline. There is so much they can achieve when they are disciplined. In addition, we instill Christian values to nurture their spiritual well-being,” he said.
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