By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
Kariba – More than 700 secondary school heads from all ten provinces of Zimbabwe have gathered in the scenic resort town of Kariba for the National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH) 2025 conference, themed “Transformative Leadership: Shaping the Next Generation.”
The event, which runs from Monday to Friday, aims to empower school leaders to drive educational innovation and excellence in the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hon. Marian Chombo, Minister of State for provincial affairs and Devolution, represented by Kariba District Development Coordinator Desmond Gumbochumba.
Chombo emphasized the pivotal role of school leaders, stating, “We are not just administrators; we are the architects of the future. We shape the minds, inspire the hearts, and guide the destinies of the next generation of leaders, innovators, and citizens.”
She highlighted the critical nature of the school leaders’ roles in today’s rapidly evolving world. “You are not just managing schools; you are transforming lives. You are the catalysts for change, the guardians of quality education, and the champions of innovation,” she added.
Chombo called upon the attendees to embrace their responsibilities as integral to achieving Vision 2030, Zimbabwe’s national development blueprint.
In a sideline discussion, NASH President Arthur Maposa reflected on the significance of the conference, which marks the 42nd annual gathering since the association’s founding.
“We are here as the National Association of Secondary School Heads in Zimbabwe for our annual conference. This is an opportunity for all heads of secondary schools in the country to come together,” he said.
Maposa explained that the conference serves multiple purposes: sharing best practices, discussing challenges, celebrating successes, and strategizing on how to tackle the educational hurdles facing Zimbabwe.
“We work hand in glove with our principals from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. This conference is also a time to showcase our achievements and invite stakeholders to join us in uplifting the Zimbabwean child through education,” he stated.
The last NASH conference took place in 2020 in Victoria Falls, creating much anticipation for this year’s event.
The influx of attendees has breathed new life into the Kariba resort area, with all lodges and hotels fully booked.
This surge in visitors has benefitted the local community, leading to over-subscription of accommodations and prompting some attendees to seek lodging in residential areas.
As the conference progresses, school heads are expected to engage in fruitful discussions, fostering a collaborative spirit aimed at enhancing Zimbabwe’s educational landscape and ensuring a brighter future for its youth.
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