Chitungwiza Secondary School Improves Infrastructure Despite Declining Enrolment

By Nelson Geje

Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe-affiliated Chitungwiza Secondary School is recording steady infrastructure improvements and academic progress, even as it faces declining enrolment and resource constraints.

Established in 2010, the school is currently led by headmistress Getrude Mhuka and has an enrolment of 87 learners, down from 120 learners in previous years. 

Infrastructure and Development

Since June 2024, the school has undertaken several development projects aimed at improving learning conditions and staff welfare.

Among the major developments is the completion of a six-roomed teachers’ house from window level to glazing level, marking significant progress in staff accommodation.

The school has also improved access to essential services through the extension of water pipes to the school garden, toilets and teachers’ cottage, enhancing both sanitation and agricultural activities.

Electricity access has been expanded through the extension of power supply from the Form Four block to the Form One and Two blocks, improving the teaching and learning environment.

Additional developments include the purchase of a water tank, as well as the construction of a fowl run and a goat kraal, supporting income-generating projects and practical agricultural learning.

Academically, the school has recorded an improvement in pass rates, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. 

Challenges

Despite these gains, the school continues to face a number of challenges.

Enrolment has declined from 120 to 87 learners, largely due to the increase in private colleges in the Chitungwiza area, which has intensified competition for learners.

The school is also experiencing a shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in English and Agriculture, as current enrolment levels make it difficult to secure additional staff.

Accommodation challenges persist, with limited space and inadequate electricity in the teachers’ cottage, affecting staff welfare.

In addition, there is a shortage of toilet facilities for both learners and staff, while the absence of a computer laboratory and science lab continues to limit practical learning opportunities. 

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the school has outlined several development priorities to address existing challenges and improve its facilities.

Top of the agenda is the drilling of a borehole, as the school currently shares water sources with a nearby primary school and clinic.

The school also plans to complete a semi-detached teachers’ house, which is expected to improve staff accommodation and retention.

Other planned projects include fencing the entire school, constructing additional toilets and kitchens for both learners and staff, and levelling the school’s sports grounds to support physical education and sporting activities.

School leadership expressed hope that with continued support from stakeholders and the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe community, Chitungwiza Secondary School will overcome its challenges and continue to provide quality education to learners.