Harare’s Innovate Institute celebrated remarkable growth and excellence at its annual Speech and Awards ceremony held last Friday, with distinguished guests, parents, learners, and partners commending the institution’s achievements and pledging further support to its vision of holistic education.
The event, held under the theme “From Effort to Excellence: A Journey Worth Celebrating,” brought together education stakeholders, business leaders, traditional authorities and community partners to honour the strides made by the institution since its establishment in 2019.
Guest of honour, Justice Matsatsira, applauded the school’s transformation from humble beginnings with just nine learners to an enrollment of over 600 students, crediting visionary leadership and commitment to excellence for this growth.
“The story of Innovate Institute is one of determination, resilience, and vision,” Matsatsira said.
“From achieving a 100% pass rate at A-Level to producing alumni excelling in universities, music, sport, politics, and business, this institution is feeding into every sector of our economy.”
Matsatsira also commended the school for prioritising holistic development beyond academics, nurturing students who are athletes, artists, entrepreneurs, and responsible citizens.
He took the opportunity to denounce drug and substance abuse, urging learners to remain focused on discipline and hard work.
“The future of our nation rests in your hands, and we need you strong, focused, and prepared,” Matsatsira told the students.
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In a show of commitment, Matsatsira pledged personal and institutional support to strengthen the school’s infrastructure, develop empowerment projects, and link the institution with industry.
“This pledge is not a one-day gesture, but an ongoing partnership — because when we invest in education, we are investing in the future of our nation,” he said.
In her address, Innovate Institute director Esline Sibanda reflected on the school’s journey, acknowledging the role of national leadership, parents, and stakeholders in supporting the institution’s vision.
She highlighted significant milestones, including Zimsec and Cambridge examination centre status, an 89% pass rate at O-Level, and a 100% pass rate at A-Level.
“From humble beginnings, the institution has navigated numerous challenges, demonstrating resilience and determination,” Sibanda said.
“Today, Innovate Institute stands as a testament to the power of hard work and visionary leadership, offering a world-class education that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and character development.”
She also celebrated alumni successes across various fields. Some former learners are pursuing higher education in India, China, Hong Kong, South Africa, and at local universities, while others have joined the police force, the music industry, and business circles.
Notably, several learners have joined Portuguese club FC Porto’s football academy, with one making it into the national team — the Warriors — while continuing with their studies.
In the arts, learners have launched their first gospel album under Vocals Music Ministries. In agriculture, students are running chicken and vegetable projects that sustain the school community. Politically, the school boasts a Junior Member of Parliament among its students.
Action for Empowerment Zimbabwe CEO Violet Nkathazo praised Innovate Institute as a model partner in nurturing leadership and innovation among young people.
“Schools are not only centres of learning but also hubs of transformation,” Nkathazo said.
“When schools and organisations like ours work together, we can unlock potential and open doors of opportunity for young people.”
Her organisation has supported initiatives such as leadership development, life skills training, mentorship, and community service programmes aimed at empowering students to become agents of positive change.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards to outstanding learners in various academic and extracurricular disciplines. Parents, teachers, and community members expressed pride in the institution’s achievements and optimism for its future.
Innovate Institute, founded just six years ago, continues to distinguish itself as a beacon of innovation and academic excellence in Zimbabwe’s education sector.
