ON 21 September 1985, a new sun rose in Victoria Falls, bringing academic light to a community of about 8 000 people then.
This year marks a monumental milestone in the history of Mosi-oa-Tunya High School, —one of Zimbabwe’s most illustrious secondary schools.
Run by the City of Victoria Falls, the school, whose name is derived from the native name for the city, Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning the Smoke that Thunders, celebrates its 40th anniversary, literally with heads high and standing tall as a beacon of academic brilliance, sporting dominance and moral leadership in Matabeleland North Province.
From these humble beginnings but on strong foundation, the school which was officially opened by the then Secretary of Education Dr Elijah Chanakira in 21 September 1985.
In actual fact, Mosi-oa-Tunya was established in 1982, begining its journey with modest roots, operating from Chinotimba Primary School, and then colloquially referred to as an Upper Top school — a model for expanding access to secondary education.
The school’s evolution took a historic turn in 1985, when it moved to its current site and setting the foundation for decades of transformative education.
Last Saturday the school held a fundraising dinner in preparation for the 40th anniversary celebration set for tomorrow Friday and in an effort to raise funds towards completion of some projects.
The celebration will coincide with a prize giving ceremony.
The school’s legacy of excellence is deeply rooted in the strong leadership of its school heads over the years. The pioneer head was Mr Smile Ncube in 1985. After him came Mr B. Moyo, Mr Matsheza, Mr J. B. Ncube and Mr Mazula who left in 1990 when Mr A. P. Mathe took over.
Until 1998 there was Mr E. Bhebhe before Mr Christopher Tennyson Ndlovu, now proprietor of Dadani Technical College assumed the post until 2006. Mr Ndlovu was succeeded by Mr A. S. Khumalo who was acting head until 2007 and then succeeded by Mr A. Mtenje between 2008 and 2010.
The current head Mr Roland Sibanda joined the school in 1999 as a teacher and became head in 2010.
Each leader played a pivotal role in nurturing the institution, spearheading a dynamic era of transformation into a hub of academic excellence.
Throughout its 40-year journey, Mosi-oa-Tunya High School has carved out a reputation for producing top-tier academic results. Known for excellence in both Ordinary and Advanced Level, the school boasts of a record O-Level pass of 11 As by a single student.
A recent A-Level student who attained 15 points and earned a place to study in the United States.
In 2024, the school was recognised as the best school in Matabeleland North and has also received the prestigious Secretary’s Merit Award, a national acknowledgment of its excellence, solidifying its reputation as a leading educational institution in the country.
The school is currently the largest in Matabeleland North with a robust enrolment of 1,421 learners, supported by 65 Government teachers and additional staff employed by the School Development Committee, one of them being a Dr Fungai Sithole, an academic doctor.
“The number of As in Matabeleland North were 27 percent from other schools in the province while ours was 26 percent from 132 candidates. This makes us a big school. We are working hard and producing results,” said the proud school head.
Beyond academics, Mosi-oa-Tunya is a powerhouse in sports. Its facilities have grown to national standards, hosting the National Association of Secondary Schools athletics competitions last year, reflecting the significant infrastructure development that has taken place over the years.
From soccer to track, Mosi-oa-Tunya has consistently ranked among the top sporting schools in the province.
Its emphasis on physical development has ensured students not only grow intellectually but also physically and socially.
The school champions inclusive education, enrolling learners with disabilities and ensuring all programming is gender-sensitive and prides itself on being a progressive, socially conscious space, nurturing well-rounded citizens.
The school also houses an Innovation Hub, a forward-thinking initiative preparing students for a fast-changing world.
Even during the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, the school remained resilient, adapting to the crisis and maintaining an enviable academic standard.
Run by the City of Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya High is part of a broader network that includes Chamabondo Primary and the upcoming Mosi-oa-Tunya 2 High.
The city hosts a dynamic mix of schools — two government schools, three mission primary and three secondary mission schools and nine primary and five secondary private schools.
Mosi-oa-Tunya, however, continues to stand out for its academic rigor, community service and commitment to excellence.
A former Victoria Falls councillor for 32 years since 1976 and headed the Council Committee on Education and Community Services which spearheaded opening of the school, Alderman Enock Sibanda said the idea of opening the school was mooted after realization that various companies were importing labour because of lack of skills among locals.
He said tourism companies and public offices got workers from Bulawayo and Hwange.
“We realized that our children were not educated and not getting jobs. So as parents started having meetings to plan on how to open a school. We also decided as Councillors that every household should pay an education levy.
“Our goal was to make it a boarding school to accommodate children from surrounding communities. So today as we look back at the school and the academic results, we are very excited that we have produced doctors and engineers. We are proud of you teachers and learners. Continue working hard,” said Ald Sibanda.
As Mosi-oa-Tunya High School celebrates 40 years of unwavering service, it does so not just with nostalgia but with pride and hope.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leader in education, sports and innovation, the school continues to mold future leaders and drive positive change
Last modified: September 25, 2025
