From humble beginnings to academic excellence: The rise of St. Collins College in rural UMP

📅 Published: August 16, 2025

Curated by AllZimNews.com

His early dreams were in agriculture, but circumstances led him to teaching.

While finishing his A-Level studies at Magunje High School in Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe (UMP), he began helping O’ Level students at Chitimbe High School, where he was staying. “Most schools had severe teacher shortages during that period, between 2007 and 2008, and I started assisting students in various subjects except Mathematics,” Chita said. “When my students excelled, I realised I had a gift for teaching. ” His hard work paid off when Chitimbe High won the 2010 Provincial Merit Award for Best O’ Level Results in Rural Day Secondary Schools in Mashonaland East, thanks in part to his contributions.

This success marked the start of his teaching career and, eventually, the founding of St.

After his headmaster was promoted and left the school, Chita took a bold step — he began teaching from his rural home. “Students followed me to my new base, and that’s how St.

Collins was born in 2012,” he said.

What started as a small homestead school has now become a fully established institution, known for its consistent pass rate of over 70% at O’ Level.

The college has also introduced an accelerated programme where students complete their O’ Level studies in two years, achieving outstanding results.

Beyond academics, St.

Collins has made a name for itself in sports, particularly volleyball and soccer.

The school has won multiple awards, including becoming National Champions at the Nash Volleyball Under-20 tournament in Victoria Falls in 2023.

They were runners-up in the same category in Mutare in 2024 and retained their title in 2025 at the Nash Games in Bulawayo.

Their Under-17 team also secured second place at the Gokomere tournament in Masvingo in July 2025. “Our goal is to be the best college in Zimbabwe in academics and sports,” Chita said. “In five years, we aim to stand alongside top schools like Peterhouse and Lomagundi, with modern laboratories, e-libraries and excellent sports facilities. ” From its roots in UMP, the institution has become a symbol of excellence, showing that great achievements are possible with passion and dedication. “We do not have respect for any school in terms of pass rates—we are among the best,” Chita said. 🔗

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