Rusununguko High School, located in Ruwa, Zimbabwe, was established on March 7, 1981. Initially founded to accommodate ex-combatants and refugees, the mixed government school has evolved into one of the top-ranking institutions in Mashonaland East.
The school holds historical significance, being rooted in the post-independence era as part of Zimbabwe’s Education with Production (ZIMFEP) initiative.
The school's philosophy integrates education with production, promoting the dignity of labor and hands-on learning experiences.
Beyond academics, Rusununguko High School promotes a philosophy of education that integrates physical training and production, mirroring educational practices in refugee camps during its founding era.
This approach ensures that students are not only academically competent but also skilled in practical and vocational areas.
Curriculum Overview
Rusununguko High School offers a curriculum that adheres to the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) guidelines, ensuring that students are prepared for both Ordinary Level (O-Level) and Advanced Level (A-Level) examinations.
The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education that equips students with essential knowledge and skills.
- Subjects Offered:
- Core Subjects: The school includes Mathematics, English Language and Literature, and Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) as foundational subjects, which are mandatory for O-Level.
- Technical and Practical Subjects: Students can also choose from subjects like Agriculture, Woodwork, Metal Work, Fashion and Fabrics, and Home Economics. These subjects aim to enhance practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
- Humanities and Social Sciences: The curriculum incorporates Shona, History, and Geography, reflecting ZIMSEC’s emphasis on a well-rounded education that includes cultural and societal understanding.
Examination Preparation:
- Students are encouraged to participate in extensive preparatory activities, including mock examinations and supplementary classes, which are crucial for success in the ZIMSEC examinations. The school’s past performance in national exams demonstrates a strong track record of achievement.
Rusununguko High School Pass Rate
In 2024, Rusununguko High School achieved impressive pass rates, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student preparedness.
The school recorded a pass rate of 98% in A-Level examinations, showcasing exceptional performance, particularly in the sciences.
This high achievement highlights the school's strong focus on science education, which has consistently contributed to student success in national assessments.
For the O-Level examinations, Rusununguko High School reported a pass rate of 85%, demonstrating robust performance across various subjects.
This level of achievement indicates a well-rounded educational approach, allowing students to excel in multiple disciplines.
In 2023, Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School showcased impressive academic performance, highlighted by outstanding results in both O-Level and A-Level examinations.
O-Level Achievements:
- Top performers included Chidziwa Panashe with 14 As and 8 Bs, and Mlala Nyasha with 9 As and 2 Bs.
A-Level Success:
- Notable A-Level students achieved high points, such as Kakora Kudakwashe with 20 points, and several others scoring 15 to 18 points.
Historical Performance
Rusununguko High School has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance over the years, particularly in its A-Level results. Notable achievements include:
- 2014: The school celebrated a remarkable accomplishment with 14 A grades achieved by its top-performing student. This set a strong foundation for subsequent years, showcasing the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
- 2015: The following year, Rusununguko raised the bar even higher, with the best student attaining 15 A grades. This steady increase in the number of top grades reflects the school's effective teaching strategies and robust support systems for students.
- 2016: Continuing the trend of excellence, the school recorded 16 A grades, marking a significant milestone. This achievement not only highlights the hard work of students and educators but also positions Rusununguko as a leading institution in the region.
These results underscore the school's ongoing dedication to fostering an environment conducive to academic success.
The consistent improvement in top A-Level grades over these years has solidified Rusununguko High School's reputation for excellence in education
Rusununguko High School Fees
For Form 1 students, the intial fees are set at around $1,860, which covers the tuition, boarding fees, levies and uniforms.
Following the initial registration, the termly fees are $636. This termly fee is charged for each subsequent term, helping to cover the operational costs associated with providing quality education and maintaining school facilities.
These fees make Rusununguko one of the most affordable boarding schools around.
Addmission & Registration Requirements at Rusununguko High
Rusununguko High School's Form One enrollment for 2025 is conducted via the Ministry of Education’s EMAP platform, which opens after the release of Grade 7 results, typically around mid-November.
Admission is highly competitive, with a cut-off of 12 units for both boys and girls, meaning only top performers are admitted.
For Lower Six entry, students also apply through EMAP once O-Level results are out. The student must have at least 3 A's in the subjects they wish to do at A-Level.
To improve your chances of securing a spot at the school, follow the instructions and tips for effectively navigating the EMAP platform.
According to some parents, the school is known for its inclusive and accommodating recruitment process, welcoming students from various academic backgrounds.
Diet & Meal Plan
At Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School, the diet and meal plan are structured to ensure students receive balanced and nutritious meals throughout the day.
The school provides a comprehensive meal chart that includes four meals per day, catering to the varied nutritional needs of its students.
Balanced Nutrition:
Each meal is designed to be well-balanced, promoting health and well-being among students. The emphasis on nutrition supports students' physical and cognitive development, essential for their academic performance.
Meat Every Day:
The meal plan includes meat in daily meals, ensuring that students receive adequate protein, which is vital for growth and energy.
Variety of Options:
In addition to meat, students also enjoy polony and fruits once a week. Eggs are part of the diet twice a week, providing further variety and nutritional benefits. This assortment allows for different tastes and preferences, making meals more enjoyable.
The commitment to providing nutritious meals reflects the school’s understanding of the critical role that diet plays in student health and academic success.
By prioritizing balanced meals, Rusununguko High School ensures that students are well-fed and ready to engage fully in their studies.
Sadza is eaten once a day in the evenings. Afternoons have rice and options such as sausages, chicken, beef etc.
The school produces its own vegetables, eggs, broilers and pork and this leads to the students getting generous portion at an affordable price.
Tuck Policy
At Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School, students are encouraged to bring tuck (snacks) to complement their meal plan, allowing for a more personalized dining experience.
This flexibility is designed to cater to individual preferences and ensure students feel satisfied throughout the school day.
No Limits on Tuck:
Students can bring an array of snacks to school, enhancing their diet and providing options for energy boosts between meals. This encourages healthy snacking habits and allows students to enjoy foods they love.
In addition the school has a well stocked tuckshop where students can also get snacks.
Exclusion of Cereals:
While there are no specific limits on the types of tuck students can bring, the school maintains a policy that prohibits cereal products.
This guideline is likely in place to promote a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of sugary snacks that often accompany cereal products.
Also prohibited are tinned foods and noodles.
By allowing students to personalize their snack choices, Rusununguko High School supports a holistic approach to nutrition, recognizing that varied diets can contribute positively to students’ overall health and satisfaction.
Concerns
Some students reported that dining facilities are small and sometimes insufficient to accommodate all students comfortably, leading to challenges during meal times. Sometimes some children eat while standing.
Hostel Setup
Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School offers a structured and supportive hostel environment for its students, fostering a sense of community and belonging while ensuring their needs are met.
Accommodation Details:
- Dormitory Arrangement: Each dormitory accommodates 12- 26 students depending on size, promoting a communal living experience that encourages friendships and collaboration among peers.
- Bunk Beds: The hostel is equipped with bunk beds, optimizing space and providing each student with a designated sleeping area. This arrangement helps to efficiently use the available space, although it may lead to a somewhat crowded environment.
Living Conditions:
- Crowded Setup: While the hostel provides essential facilities, the density of students per dorm may make it feel a bit crowded. This aspect of the accommodation is managed by promoting cooperation and respect among students, helping them to develop social skills and adaptability.
The hostel environment is designed to ensure students feel safe and supported while pursuing their education. It fosters not only academic success but also personal growth through shared experiences and camaraderie.
Bullying and Discipline
There are serious concerns regarding bullying, particularly involving prefects who have been reported to engage in aggressive behaviors towards other students.
Reports indicate instances of theft and intimidation, causing distress among students and parents alike. Some parents have expressed their intention to transfer their children due to these issues
Despite these challenges, many parents commend the school's discipline, noting that teachers are strict and maintain a focused environment for learning.
The administration has a reputation for prioritizing discipline, which is essential for fostering a conducive learning environment
Water Availability
Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School experiences occasional water challenges, particularly during the summer months when demand tends to increase.
To mitigate these issues, the school has installed two solar-powered boreholes—one located near the kitchen and the other in the garden.
These boreholes are part of the school’s efforts to ensure a reliable water supply for daily operations and agricultural activities.
Despite these improvements, challenges with water supply can still arise, particularly during periods of scarcity.
The school is proactive in addressing these challenges, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and resource management while striving to provide a comfortable living and learning environment for students.
Power Availability
Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School relies on the national power supply from ZESA, which can often be unreliable due to frequent outages.
To ensure that students can continue their studies without interruption, the school has taken proactive measures by acquiring a 250 kVA generator.
This generator serves as a backup power source, allowing for uninterrupted electricity supply during outages.
This investment is crucial for maintaining a conducive learning environment, especially during exam preparations or study sessions when students need consistent access to power for lighting, computers, and other educational resources.
The generator also helps ensure that students get hot water for bathing in winter.
The school's commitment to ensuring reliable energy access reflects its dedication to providing high-quality education and supporting student success, regardless of external challenges.
ICT Situation at Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School
At Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School, the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a top priority, reflecting the school's commitment to modernizing education and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.
The headmaster, Maone Veremu, has emphasized the importance of utilizing technology such as computers and tablets in students' learning processes.
Computer Lab
The school has made significant strides in enhancing its ICT infrastructure, including the refurbishment of the computer lab.
This upgraded facility is equipped with 40 new computers and now offers internet access, providing students with essential resources for research and learning.
The availability of technology in the computer lab allows students to engage in various educational activities, enhancing their digital literacy and research capabilities.
Emphasis on Tablets
Looking ahead, the school plans to require all students to have tablets (without cellular lines) by the next academic year (2025).
This initiative aims to ensure that every learner has access to digital learning tools, further integrating technology into everyday education.
The focus on tablets and computers reflects the school’s recognition of the global trend towards automation and the need for students to embrace these technologies in their studies.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Rusununguko High School's commitment to ICT is evident in its proactive approach to incorporating modern technology into the educational experience.
The school understands that learning is no longer confined to traditional classroom settings; therefore, embracing ICT is essential for developing well-rounded, future-ready students
Infrastructure
Rusununguko was established over 40 years ago and as such the infrastructure is rather old.
While the infrastructure may be older, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and modernization where possible.
This includes ongoing maintenance of existing facilities and strategic upgrades, such as the installation of solar-powered boreholes and the acquisition of new computers for the lab.
Overall, the infrastructure at Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School serves its purpose, ensuring that students have access to essential educational resources while the school plans for future enhancements to further improve the learning environment.
School Projects at Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School
Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience through various projects.
The school has undertaken several initiatives to improve facilities and provide students with opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Completed Projects
- Boarding Facilities:
The school has successfully completed the construction of two boarding masters’ houses. This development aims to provide adequate accommodation for staff members, ensuring that there is always supervision and support available for boarding students. - Agricultural Projects:
The school has actively engaged in agricultural initiatives, successfully harvesting 75 tonnes of maize in 2024.
This project not only contributes to the school’s food supplies but also teaches students important agricultural skills and promotes self-sufficiency within the school community.
The school expects to have adequate maize meal supplies until the end of term three 2024.
Current Projects
- Teacher Accommodation:
The school is currently constructing a four-bedroom house for teachers. This new accommodation will help alleviate the shortage of housing for staff members, ensuring that qualified teachers can live on-site and provide consistent support and supervision for students. - Resource Enhancement:
In addition to housing, the school has allocated a budget of $23,000 to purchase a new bus.
This bus will significantly improve transportation options for students, enabling them to participate in extracurricular activities, sports events, and educational trips more easily.
Enhanced transportation is essential for broadening students' experiences and learning opportunities.
These ongoing projects underscore Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School's proactive approach to addressing the needs of its community.
By investing in both infrastructure and resources, the school aims to create a more supportive and enriching environment for its students.
Conclusion: Who is Rusununguko High School Suited For?
Rusununguko ZIMFEP High School is most suited for students who are committed to their academic success and who thrive in a disciplined environment with a strong link to Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
The school offers good pass rates, particularly excelling in A-Level sciences, which is a significant draw for academically-focused students.
The decent diet, which includes four balanced meals a day with meat, eggs, and polony, ensures students have the nutritional support needed to excel in their studies.
The relatively affordable fees, including a registration fee of $1,860 and termly fees of $636, make it accessible for many families, particularly those looking for quality education without the burden of exorbitant costs.
The education with production philosophy, rooted in the school’s historical foundation tied to the liberation struggle, will appeal to students who value practical learning alongside their academic curriculum.
The ongoing projects that include agricultural initiatives and infrastructure improvements further contribute to the holistic development of students, preparing them for the future.
However, potential parents should be aware of some of the challenges faced by the school.
Bullying and reports of overcrowding in the dormitories and classrooms could be a concern for some families.
Students are housed in dormitories with 26 students per room, and the dining facilities may sometimes be insufficient for the high number of students.
These factors could make the school less suitable for those seeking a more comfortable and less competitive environment.
Additionally, while the school is undergoing infrastructure development, including new accommodation for staff and a new bus, the older infrastructure may still be a concern for parents seeking modern facilities.
Rusununguko High School is a good fit for families who prioritize discipline, academic performance, and the philosophy of education with production, and who are comfortable with the school’s ongoing development.
It is particularly ideal for students who value national history and cultural roots, and who are willing to adapt to a competitive, structured environment where there is a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal growth.
Rusununguko High School Contact Details
Cell: +263 719 290 212 Head (Mr Vheremu)
0712875992 / 1
Website www.rusunungukohigh.co.zw
Other Zimfep Schools are
Rusununguko High School Pictures
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FAQs On Rusununguko High School
In 2024 Rusununguko High School had a pass rate of 98% at A level and 85% at O-Level.
The termly boarding fees at Rusununguko High are $636. When starting you should budget around $1500 to cover everything.
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