Story by Tichaona Kurewa
MATETSI Secondary School in Hwange District is already reaping the benefits of a low-cost boarding facility introduced in 2023, with a notable rise in academic performance among learners.
Situated in the Matetsi area near the Hwange National Park, the school lies within a community that frequently grapples with human-wildlife conflict.
Before the facility was established, students had to walk between 10 and 18 kilometres each way daily, often braving encounters with wild animals and navigating flooded rivers.
Since the implementation of the boarding initiative, the narrative has shifted significantly, as learners now have a safer and more stable environment conducive to academic success.
Learners now have more time for schoolwork and fewer worries about their safety.
“We used to travel long distances every day to and from school. This gave us very little time to focus on our studies. But now, with this facility, we can dedicate more time to schoolwork. I used to pass only three out of seven subjects, but since joining the boarding facility, I’m now passing up to six subjects per term,” a student said.
“Life was not easy, especially for those of us with disabilities. This facility has been a real game changer for me,” a pupil said.
“When I finish school, I want to become a pilot. I believe this facility is helping me get closer to that dream, because I now have more time to concentrate on my studies,” a beneficiary said.
“We used to miss school because of elephants or flooded rivers blocking our way. But now, that is a thing of the past. Our pass rate has really improved,” another student said.
The school confirms the improved pass rate and attendance and is appealing for more support to complete the facility.
Currently, we have one hostel that accommodates both boys and girls. We would love to have a separate hostel for boys. We are calling for support to finish this hostel, which still needs some work. Since the boarding facility was established, our pass rate has jumped from zero to about 12 %, and we hope it continues to rise,” Head Matetsi Secondary School, Mrs Thandekile Dimbira said.
Launched in 2023, the boarding facility currently houses 160 learners out of an enrollment of over 280.
The project was made possible through support from the local community, the Buy a Brick Foundation, and the Hwange Rural District Council.
