By Vongai Masuka
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Hon Advocate Felix Tapiwa Mhona has pledged to modernise infrastructure at his former school, Presbyterian High School in Mhondoro, and rehabilitate roads around the institution.
Minister Mhona made the commitment over the weekend while officiating as guest of honour at the school’s prize-giving ceremony, 34 years after completing his studies there.
He said his ministry would support the school’s development projects, including the modernisation of its grounds and improvement of surrounding roads, to create a better environment for both academic and extracurricular activities.
The minister also outlined broader infrastructure development programmes being undertaken in the area and across the country.
In his keynote address, Adv Mhona urged pupils to shun drug and substance abuse, work hard and make good use of the opportunities provided by their parents.
“Your parents have a desire for you to have a good future. If you do well at school, they will have joy in their hearts. Work hard and do good all the time,” he said.
He also encouraged parents to support their children’s academic and extracurricular pursuits, saying talent development was equally important.
“I urge parents to support their children. Do not discourage them from excelling in extracurricular activities. Be their pillar, both academically and in their talents,” Adv Mhona said.
He further urged learners to use technology responsibly and focus on activities that would contribute positively to their future.
Presbyterian High School headmaster Mr Mapiko said the institution had continued to record strong academic results while experiencing significant growth in enrolment.
He said enrolment had increased to 756 learners, supported by 35 teachers, with the growth being influenced by the Government’s drive to expand access to education.
“The recent years have seen the school enrolment steadily growing and expanding, doubling its size to 756 learners and 35 teachers,” Mr Mapiko said.
“This exponential rise in enrolment continues to be influenced by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde ED Mnangagwa’s mantra, ‘Leaving no one and no place behind’.”
He said the school’s responsible authority was targeting further expansion, with plans to develop Presbyterian High into a major boarding school accommodating 1 000 learners.
The school has expanded significantly since Minister Mhona attended it, when it offered only Ordinary Level education.
It now offers Advanced Level education and has constructed a school hall, dining hall and clinic, with the latter also serving the surrounding community.
Presbyterian Church moderator Mr Mazanhi urged teachers to remain committed to their profession amid growing challenges associated with drug and substance abuse among young people.
He said the school provided learners with the educational tools needed to succeed, while the church played an important role in providing moral guidance.
Meanwhile, students were recognised for outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements during the prize-giving ceremony.
One parent, Mr Mushonga, whose daughter received four awards, welcomed Minister Mhona’s pledge to improve the school’s infrastructure and surrounding roads.
Mhondoro-Mubaira legislator Hon Chamu Chiwanza, who attended the event, also bought a copy of The Spark Within, a book authored by school pupil Patron Chamani, for US$50.
Chamani, who comes from a humble background, received further support from Minister Mhona, who pledged to assist him with his tertiary education after completing his A-Level studies.
Minister Mhona was accompanied by his director, Mr Kudzai Choto; his Chikomba East constituency coordinator, Mr Lovemore Masunungure; Mashonaland East Provincial Engineer Eng Gomo; and his friend, Mr Marvellous Nyamurowa.
