Survivor Nyasulu
On a radiant Sunday morning filled with joy and reverence, Marist Brothers Secondary School celebrated a remarkable milestone—53 years of faith-driven education, character formation, and community service.
The Golden Jubilee celebration, held on St Marcellin Champagnat Day, drew together students, alumni, staff, parents, and dignitaries to honour the legacy of an institution that has become a cornerstone of values-based education in Zimbabwe.
The day began with a solemn and spiritually uplifting Holy Mass led by Bishop Rafael Mabuza of the Hwange Diocese. In his homily, the Bishop delivered a powerful message that resonated with all in attendance: “Don’t just pass through Marist—let Marist pass through you.” His words captured the essence of the school’s mission—not merely to educate, but to transform young lives through faith, service, and purpose. It was a call for students to internalise the Marist identity, to live with integrity, and to carry the school’s values with them long after they leave its gates.
The Mass set the tone for a day filled with deep reflection, emotional tributes, and celebration. A central part of the Jubilee was the recognition of long-serving members of staff whose dedication and sacrifice have sustained the school over decades. Bishop Mabuza presented Bibles to several honourees as a symbolic gesture of gratitude. Among the teachers recognised were Mrs Monica Ngwerume, who has given an extraordinary 36 years of service, Mr Leadus Sibanda with 30 years, and Miss Nomathemba Sibanda with 21 years. From the support staff, Mr Tapela Ndlovu was honoured for 21 years, Mr Thabani Mpofu for 22 years, and Mrs Siduduzile Ngulube, also with 22 years of service. Their combined years reflect the heart and soul of Marist Brothers—the people who have quietly and consistently nurtured generations.
Guest of Honour Dr Cleopas Makonese, a proud alumnus, delivered an emotionally charged address that drew heartfelt applause. He recalled how Marist Brothers had not only shaped his academic path but moulded his character and worldview. “This school built the foundation of who I am today. Its values still guide me,” he said. His speech was a stirring reminder of the transformative power of Marist education and the enduring impact it has on its alumni, many of whom have gone on to serve Zimbabwe and the world with distinction. His reflections reinforced the idea that Marist is not just a school, but a lifelong compass.
The celebration was filled with vibrant performances from current students, whose music, dance, and poetry added colour and youthful energy to the occasion. Their participation brought to life the spirit of the school’s motto: forming good Christians and good citizens. The atmosphere was rich with nostalgia, pride, and a shared commitment to keep the Marist flame burning bright into the future.
Br Jacob Mutingwende, Provincial Superior of the Marist Brothers in Zimbabwe, expressed profound gratitude to the four foundational pillars that have supported the school’s journey. He thanked the Church, represented by the Bishop, for its unwavering commitment to spiritual and educational development; the government for providing land and infrastructure support; donors for their generosity in funding critical facilities; and parents—often represented by School Development Committees—whose advocacy and support have been instrumental in the construction of almost every new building at the school. “Every structure here reflects our collective dream—built on faith, community, and sacrifice,” said Br Jacob.
As the sun set on the Jubilee celebration, one thing was clear: the Marist Brothers community is not just celebrating its past, but boldly stepping into the future with hope and purpose. The school remains a sanctuary of faith, a hub of academic excellence, and a launchpad for young Zimbabweans to become agents of change in their communities and beyond. The story of Marist Brothers is still being written—one student, one teacher, and one act of service at a time.
