Kadoma elite school shines at regional debate competition

Nonsikelelo Ncube, a Grade 5 pupil, was the fifth ranked student in southern Africa at the competition held in Johannesburg.

A student from Kadoma’s prestigious Makseth International School has made history by securing a spot in the 10 at the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) BaulHouse debate competition held in South Africa over the weekend.

Nonsikelelo Ncube, a Grade 5 pupil, was the fifth ranked student in southern Africa at the competition held in Johannesburg.

Four other students from the school also made it into the top 20 out of more than 300 competitors from countries that included Kenya, Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana.

The Sadc primary schools debate and speech championships provide a platform for primary school learners from the regon to develop their debating and public speaking skills, preparing them to shine on larger stages.

At this fiercely contested event, students from Makseth wrote their own chapter of success. 

“Makseth International School had five of its students make it to the top 20 out of 300 competitors,” said Talent Bako, the school’s principal.

“Among these bright minds was Nonsikelelo Ncube, a Grade 5 student, who distinguished herself as one of the top 10 speakers, scooping the fifth position in Southern Africa.”

Bako added: “Her achievement highlights not only her individual talent, but also the school's commitment to excellence in education and public speaking. 

“The competition provided valuable exposure for the students and showcased the institution's dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals.”

Nonsikelelo’s father,  Sibanengi Ncube, who is a university lecturer in South Africa  and a former public speaker, said he was impressed by her daughter’s performance at the Sadc debate competition. 

Ncube said has daughter was always a confident child, but her performance improved significantly after joining Makseth in January this year.

“Though public speaking runs in the family, the grooming, mentorship and training she is getting at Makseth is an exception, I can see a big difference now,” he said.

“I can see her exceeding this level if she continues receiving the mentorship she is getting from the school.”

Nestled in the picturesque Blueranges of Kadoma, Makseth International School has been open to the public for just two years.

The school has already made significant strides in providing holistic education. 

Makseth has set a high standard for holistic education by facilitating sporting exchange programmes with renowned clubs internationally. 

The school boasts a state-of-the-art soccer pitch, complete with floodlights and artificial turf, spanning 2,000 square meters – a training ground used by elite players during the December 2022 World Cup in Doha. 

It has Zimbabwe's only 4G artificial turf soccer field, well-constructed tennis courts, and comprehensive infrastructure that supports various extra-curricular activities and sports.

The school prioritises international exposure and personal development, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.

In November of last year, the school organised a tour to the Museum of the Future in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where 11-year-old Theophilius Tizira competed in a prestigious tennis tournament and clinched a silver medal, marking a significant milestone in his growth. 

Since then, the school has engaged in numerous international educational and sporting activities, believing that exposure nurtures students psychologically and builds their confidence to face the world.

Makseth has also hosted international performances and collaborated with Kutandara Arts Marimba team from the United States, joining the top three Marimba schools in Zimbabwe. 

"Choosing the right school is a significant advantage for your child's development. International exposure is one of the many benefits offered by elite education," Bako stated.

“As we continue to gain recognition on both national and international platforms, we remain committed to providing a holistic education that equips students with the skills and experiences necessary for their future endeavours.” Bako concluded.

Makseth International School enrols students from early child development up and boarding from Grade 3 to 7.

The school also offers secondary education from Forms 1 to 4, with students sitting for both the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council and Cambridge examinations. 

The school has also introduced foreign languages like Chinese and French to prepare students for a globalised world.

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