A- Level results: Clergy’s children changing the script
SINCE time immemorial, preachers’ kids have always been perceived to be mischievous.
Contrary to expectations that they should be society’s role models, just like their ministering parents, in many communities, pastors’offspring are often social misfits.
However, if the academic exploits of Simbarashe Chemhere, a St Faith’s High School priest’s son and Masimba Chirombe, son to St Augustine’s High School principal and priest are anything to go by, the clergy children’s bad boy tag is fast disappearing.
Simbarashe scored 15 points in the Zimsec A-Level results that were recently released, while Masimba garnered an impressive 25 points.
Anglican Diocese of Manicaland Bishop Erick Ruwona noted: “Clergy children are making the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland proud and their parents are on cloud nine. Clergy children are generally viewed as spoilt and likely to fail in life.
“The Diocese of Manicaland has awarded scholarships and allowed all their clergy’s children to study free of charge at our schools as part of their employment benefits. We are happy that the children are not disappointing us.
“Our strategy to prioritise pastoral care through the appointment of Principal/ Rectors and Chaplains has paid dividends. I hope many will understand the sincerity of our noble intentions.”
Simbarashe said:“I am a young man who received quality education from some of the most prestigious schools in Zimbabwe, including Mt Joy Nursery in Eastern Highlands, Mt Mellary in Nyanga, John Cowie in Rusape and St Faith’s High School in Rusape.
“I enrolled at St Faith’s High School with an impressive six units on my Grade Seven results slip in 2018. I assumed different leadership roles in clubs like Public Speaking and Debating society as the financial advisor, E.M.A as the public relations officer, Drama Club as projects manager and a St Faith’s based news club, Fisco News Network, as a senior reporter.
“I went on to earn myself a golden reputation at the school as a powerful and incredible public speaker as well as a talented actor. I completed my O-Level with flying colours as is the norm at the school. I enrolled for my A- Level at the same school and passed with 15 points.”
St Augustine’s High School Vice-Major (2022-2023), Masimba wrote:“Today, it is my pleasure to be recounting a journey marked by determination, hard work and eventual success. As I delved into the challenge of excelling in my exams, I devoted myself to a disciplined study routine. Each day, I established specific goals, breaking down the extensive syllabus into more manageable portions.
“Facing challenges along the way, I chose not to be disheartened. Instead, I sought assistance when necessary, whether it came from teachers, peers or online resources. Collaboration played a pivotal role in shaping my success story.
“I transformed obstacles into stepping stones. The belief in my capabilities served as the driving force behind my motivation. Consistency emerged as the linchpin. Resisting the urge to procrastinate, I ensured that every study session had a clear purpose. I celebrated small victories, recognising the progress made, which kept my spirits high.
“Ultimately, the exams were more than a mere assessment of academic knowledge. They stood as a testament to my resilience. Excelling was not solely about grades.
“It embodied personal growth and the confidence gained by overcoming challenges. As I share this narrative of success, I hope it inspires each of you to embrace determination, seek assistance when needed, maintain positivity in adversity, and persistently strive towards your goals.
“Remember, success is not just a destination; it’s a journey marked by effort and perseverance. In appreciation of the Almighty for my success, I express heartfelt thanks through prayer. I acknowledge the guidance, strength, and blessings received, expressing sincere gratitude for the opportunities provided. I commit to utilising this success for positive endeavours,” said Masimba.
Bishop Ruwona chipped in:“Zimbabwe has produced academic giants, but moral and spiritual dwarfs. As the Anglican Church, we continue aiming to produce academic, moral and spiritual giants. The Manica Post made St Faith’s the brand it is today. We want this partnership to continue. Please, promote other schools such as St Matthias, St Anne’s in Wedza, St Mary’s Magdalene and the new kid on the block, St Catherine Girls’College in Rusape.
“St James High School, Zongoro; Holy Family Primary School and St Werbugh’s High School in Chigodora are now boarding schools.
“We want Manicaland to be Zimbabwe’s education hub, with at least 36 boarding school in 10 years. Scarcity of Form One places for our children must be a thing of the past,”said the Bishop.