Langalakhe Mabena TOWNSEND High School in Bulawayo hosted its colourful Speech and Prize Giving Day on Friday, honouring learners who excelled in academics, sport and other activities while recognising teachers whose efforts contributed to impressive results in the 2025 Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) final examinations. The event, held under the theme: “Raising Girls of Character, Competence and Courage,” reflected the school’s commitment to producing well-rounded learners equipped to make a positive contribution to society. Townsend High headmistress, Mrs Thokozile Tshabalala, said the school had deliberately placed emphasis on the character of its learners, beyond their academic performance. “In a world where shortcuts are celebrated, we teach honesty. In a world where disrespect is trending, we teach respect for self, for elders and for the school. “Through our Guidance and Counselling, Scripture Union, assemblies and mentorship, we insist that a Townsend girl must be known for integrity and must rise above all challenges. Blossom forever,” she said. Mrs Tshabalala said the approach was already yielding results, with cases of indiscipline having declined. “I am proud to report that our girls have responded. Cases of indiscipline have significantly declined, our girls are smarter in their uniform and our Christian ethos remains strong. Character is the foundation. Without it, we build nothing,” she said. Guest of honour Dr Lucky Mlilo said he was deeply humbled and honoured to be invited to address the school, describing Townsend High as more than an educational institution. “Townsend is not just a school, it is a heritage. It is a beacon of girl-child education in Bulawayo and indeed, in Zimbabwe,” he said. Dr Mlilo urged learners not to measure success solely through certificates, trophies and academic achievements, but to place character at the centre of their development. “My dear girls, prizes are beautiful. Certificates will fade. Trophies will, in time, gather dust. But character, character will follow you into marriage, into the workplace, into old age. “Competence may get you into university, but character is what will keep you there. Competence may get you a job, but character is what will earn you a promotion,” he said. Dr Mlilo challenged the girls to remain grounded despite the pressures of social media and modern society. “In this age of social media, where life is often about showmanship, I challenge you to be a generation of depth. Be faithful. Be faithful to God. Be faithful to your books. Be faithful to your parents, who are paying your fees under immensely difficult conditions,” said Dr Mlilo. School Development Committee vice-chairperson Mr Thulani Ncube applauded teachers and non-teaching staff for their role in shaping the learners. “A successful school is built not only by those who stand in front of a classroom, but by every person who plays a role behind the scenes. “Teaching is more than a profession. It is a responsibility that involves shaping the minds, character and future of the next generation. “Every lesson taught, every assignment marked, every learner encouraged and every challenge addressed contributes to the development of our children,” he said. Townsend High recorded a 60 percent pass rate at Ordinary Level and 95.5 percent at Advanced Level in the 2025 Zimsec examinations. The school has also continued to make its mark beyond the classroom. In sport, its Under-15 and Under-20 soccer and rugby teams, Under-17 and Under-20 netball and volleyball teams, as well as the Under-17 handball team, reached provincial competitions. The school’s Under-14 and Under-18 tennis players reached national competitions, while three basketball players progressed to national level. In debate and public speaking, Townsend High teams reached provincial competitions. The school has also made strides in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), with its learners representing the province at the Science Olympiad. Its robotics team reached national level, with the junior team finishing third and set to compete internationally. The achievements, coupled with the recognition of teachers and learners, provided a fitting reflection of Townsend High’s pursuit of academic excellence while nurturing girls of character, competence and courage.

Originally published by The Sunday News. Read original article