Mutare, 16 May 2025 – The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) successfully hosted the National Heritage Education Quiz Finals at the Mutare Museum, in celebration of International Museum Day. The event brought together ten outstanding primary schools representing the ten provinces of Zimbabwe in a spirited intellectual contest that celebrated national history, culture, and identity.
The grand occasion was dignified by the presence of high-ranking officials and stakeholders from both government and civil society. Notable among them was the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Hon. Chido Sanyatwe, who served as Guest of Honour. Also present was Professor Munyaradzi Manyanga, Chairperson of the NMMZ Board of Trustees, alongside Mr. Maronge, who ably represented the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Manicaland Province, Hon. Misheck Mugadza. The educational sector was equally represented through Mr. Gabaza, the Provincial Education Director, and a host of NMMZ senior officials
The day began with a vibrant street procession through the heart of Mutare, where the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Band led a ceremonial march, supported by a Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) escort and the enthusiastic participation of the Mutare Bikers Club. This cultural parade marked the tone of pride and unity that carried into the rest of the day’s proceedings.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Mupira, Regional Director for NMMZ, warmly welcomed all delegates and participants, setting the stage for a memorable event. The Guest of Honour, Hon. Chido Sanyatwe, emphasized the importance of heritage education in fostering the preservation of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural legacy.
The competition featured five challenging rounds, with each round comprising five thought-provoking questions derived from Zimbabwe’s heritage and history. The intellectual showdown was intense, with participants demonstrating deep knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork.
After a competitive series of rounds, Cecil John Rhodes Primary School, representing the Midlands Province, emerged as national champions, securing 43 points. The second and third positions were decided through a sudden-death tie-breaker between Trojan Mine Primary School (Mashonaland Central) and Helen McGhie Primary School (Masvingo), with Trojan Mine taking second place and Helen McGhie securing third. Mount Sunset Primary School (Harare Metropolitan) completed the top four.
In an inspiring gesture of support for education and youth development, the Zimbabwe Free Range Poultry Association donated road runner chicks to the top four winning schools. The 4th place winners received 50 chicks, while the national champions walked away with 200 chicks — a unique prize blending sustainability, entrepreneurship, and heritage.
Ms. Madiro, a distinguished member of the NMMZ Board of Trustees, delivered heartfelt closing remarks, commending all participants for their dedication and encouraging continued engagement with Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
This year’s finals not only spotlighted the academic excellence of Zimbabwean learners but also reaffirmed the role of museums as living institutions that educate, inspire, and unite communities. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for making history in this remarkable celebration of heritage.
