Chitungwiza Primary School Records Academic Progress Amid Development Efforts

Nelson Geje

Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe-run Chitungwiza Primary School is making steady progress in improving its infrastructure and academic performance while navigating financial challenges affecting many learning institutions.

Established in 1987, the school currently has an enrolment of 238 learners and is headed by T. Munyoro.

Infrastructure and Development

School authorities report several ongoing development initiatives aimed at improving both the learning environment and the welfare of staff and learners.

Among the key projects underway is the construction of a computer laboratory attached to the head’s office and staff room, which has currently reached ring beam level. The facility is expected to enhance digital learning and improve learners’ access to information and communication technology.

The school has also ventured into income-generating agricultural projects, including poultry farming and goat rearing. The poultry project currently produces two batches of 50 birds per term, while the livestock project includes four pregnant female goats, which are expected to increase the herd and support the school’s sustainability efforts.

In addition, the school has completed the construction of Early Childhood Development (ECD) toilets and a play centre, improving sanitation and learning facilities for younger learners.

Efforts to improve teachers’ welfare have also seen the construction of outside kitchens for teachers’ houses, while the school has recorded academic progress with the pass rate improving from 29 percent to 42 percent.

Challenges

Despite the positive developments, the school continues to face several operational challenges.

School authorities highlighted low fee payment as one of the major concerns this term. According to the administration, many parents are reluctant to pay school fees following the Ministry’s policy that no learner should be sent away from school due to non-payment.

As a result, only about half of the learners have paid school fees, placing financial strain on the institution’s operations and development programmes.

The school is also facing a shortage of roofing materials required to complete the computer laboratory building. In addition, there are insufficient inputs for the farming projects, which are expected to support the school financially. 

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the school plans to complete the roofing and flooring of the computer laboratory, which will enable learners to benefit from improved digital learning facilities.

The administration also aims to continue improving the school’s academic pass rate, while expanding agricultural activities as an additional income-generating project.

Other plans include electrifying and painting teachers’ houses, which is expected to improve staff welfare and enhance the overall school environment.

School leadership expressed optimism that, with continued support from parents, stakeholders and the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe community, the institution will continue to grow and provide quality education to learners in Chitungwiza.