Mpopoma High School on Friday marked a major milestone after commissioning a 63-seater Asia Star coach, a 2026 Toyota Fortuner GD6 and unveiling a landmark monument during a colourful ceremony attended by education officials, parents, former school heads and learners.
Held under the theme, Combined Efforts Towards Excellence Without Bounds and Endless Joy, the event celebrated the school’s continued growth, academic excellence and commitment to creating a conducive learning environment.
School deputy head Junior Fuyane described the newly unveiled monument as a lasting symbol of the institution’s heritage, identity and achievements.
“The monument signifies the greatness and visibility of Mpopoma High School. It reflects our strength, permanence and academic excellence,” she said.
She added that the light incorporated into the monument symbolises education and enlightenment.
“As the light reflects, it illuminates the whole world. This is our heritage,” said Fuyane.
Headmistress Sihle Sibanda said the commissioning ceremony marked a defining chapter in the school’s history, highlighting the importance of the new acquisitions in improving both learner welfare and school operations.
“The new bus will greatly improve learner mobility, safety and participation in educational activities, while the Fortuner will strengthen the school’s operational efficiency,” she said.
- Mpopoma High celebrates historic milestone in style
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Sibanda said the monument would stand as a lasting representation of unity, resilience and the aspirations of the Mpopoma High community.
“The monument stands as a timeless symbol of our unity, resilience and aspirations,” she said.
She also commended the school’s outstanding academic achievements, revealing that Mpopoma High ranked first at Advanced Level after 63 learners attained 15 points and above.
In addition, the school was recently nominated as the cleanest school in Bulawayo in the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) competitions.
Guest of Honour Simon Saunyama, Director for Economic Affairs and Investments, who represented the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, emphasised the transformative power of education.
“Education remains the greatest equaliser in society,” said Saunyama.
“To some, a school bus may appear ordinary, but to a learner who walks long distances every day, this bus represents dignity, motivation and hope. To parents, it is assurance and relief.”
He said the bus symbolised more than transport, but the future aspirations of learners.
“It will carry dreams — future doctors, teachers, engineers, writers, ministers and presidents. It carries the ambitions of a generation determined to rise above limitations,” he said.
Former headmasters Tivington Ncube and Christopher Dube were honoured during the ceremony for their contribution and dedicated service to the school over the years.
A representative from VODIM, Mlibazisi Phiri, applauded the school community for working together to achieve tangible progress.
“The progress made by Mpopoma High School is undeniable and stands as a strong foundation for growth, stability and future success,” said Phiri.
