Rufaro High School Records Academic Excellence and Expands Learning Facilities

Nelson Geje

Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe-run Rufaro High School continues to distinguish itself as a centre of academic excellence and holistic learner development, achieving remarkable results while expanding its infrastructure and educational programmes.

Established in 1987, the school has grown into one of the leading learning institutions in the district, currently enrolling 688 learners under the leadership of school head J. Shumbanhete.

Academic Excellence

Rufaro High School has maintained a strong academic record over the years. Since 2015, the school has consistently recorded Ordinary Level pass rates of 70 percent and above, reflecting its commitment to quality education.

In 2025, the school achieved a major milestone when it attained an exceptional 98 percent pass rate at Ordinary Level, earning third position in the district. The school also maintained the same 98 percent pass rate at Advanced Level, further cementing its reputation as a high-performing institution.

Sporting and Co-Curricular Achievements

Beyond academic success, Rufaro High School has continued to shine in sports and extracurricular activities that nurture talent and personal development among learners.

One of the school’s most prominent programmes is the Rufaro Starlet Academy, which has gained recognition across Zimbabwe for its dominance in competitions and its role in developing young sporting talent.

The school also boasts several active clubs that cultivate a wide range of skills among learners. Among them is the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Club, which earned provincial recognition when the school was named Best Clean School in the Province in 2024. The achievement was celebrated nationally and acknowledged by Mai Auxillia Mnangagwa, the First Lady of Zimbabwe.

Infrastructure Development

In recent years, Rufaro High School has made significant strides in expanding its infrastructure to improve the learning environment.

Major developments include the completion of a state-of-the-art ICT Centre combined with a library, which is expected to enhance research and digital learning among students.

The school has also constructed a modern administration block and a new ablution block for teachers, improving both operational efficiency and staff welfare.

Accommodation facilities have also been expanded, with the construction of modern dormitories for both boys and girls, as well as teachers’ houses. Construction is currently underway on a new upstairs girls’ dormitory, which will further increase the school’s capacity to accommodate learners.

Sustainability Projects

Rufaro High School is also investing in sustainability and self-sufficiency initiatives aimed at supporting the welfare of learners while providing practical learning experiences.

These projects include poultry farming for meat and eggs, cattle ranching for meat and milk, a vegetable garden, and an orchard with a variety of fruit trees.

In addition, the school has established a fish pond, which provides a steady supply of fish used to supplement student meals and improve nutrition.

In recognition of its achievements and developments, Rufaro High School was awarded the Secretary’s Merit Award in 2020, a testament to its commitment to educational excellence.

Vocational Training Expansion

In a significant milestone for skills development, the school opened a Vocational Training Centre in January 2026. The centre provides practical skills training not only to learners but also to members of the surrounding community, aligning with national efforts to promote technical and vocational education.

Challenges

Despite its successes, the school continues to face several challenges.

Among them is the shortage of modern teaching resources, including interactive boards for classrooms, large display screens for demonstrations, and laptops required for computer science examinations.

Power outages also disrupt practical lessons, particularly those requiring electricity. Additionally, delayed payment of school fees by some parents continues to affect the school’s operations. 

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Rufaro High School has outlined several development projects aimed at further improving the learning environment.

The school plans to construct a school hall to host various events and gatherings, install water-borne sanitation facilities for both boys and girls, build an additional dormitory, and develop all-weather sports courts to support a wider range of athletic activities.

School authorities say these initiatives will strengthen the institution’s ability to deliver quality education while nurturing well-rounded learners prepared for the future.