with Blessing Jemani
Gift Mpofu, the District Schools Inspector for Gokwe South, presides over one of the most populous education districts in the country, with 206 schools under his supervision. Four more are premised to be functional in this quarter.
What many now refer to as the “G-Factor”—the Gift factor—has steadily transformed the district’s education landscape. Under his stewardship, Gokwe South has begun to shed the long-standing burden of zero-percent pass rates, a challenge that once defined several schools in the district.
Historically, Gokwe South has faced persistent obstacles: poor road connectivity, unpaid school fees, and limited resources, to mention just a few destabilising factors. Yet despite these constraints, a noticeable shift is underway—and it can largely be attributed to the G-Factor.
Working alongside a committed team of inspectors and supported by a responsive senior management structure, the district is now showing remarkable promise. The 2025 secondary school performance standings reflect this positive trajectory, with improved pass rates recorded across most schools.
One standout institution is St Paul’s High School, which registered the highest improvement rate compared to its 2024 performance—a clear indicator that targeted supervision and support can yield tangible results.
Beyond examination results, the G-Factor represents a deliberate harnessing of innovation, collaboration, and support at the district level. Schools have increasingly become hubs of innovation and technology. Remarkably, many rural schools now boast internet connectivity, a development that is playing a pivotal role in enhancing access to quality education.
At Grade 7 level, the district also recorded a notable improvement in its average rating, further affirming the upward momentum across all learning levels.
The main deterrent to this promising progress remains the need for consistent parental support, particularly in the timely payment of school fees. Should parents fully play their part, Gokwe South has the potential to become a beacon of educational excellence.
Several schools already stand out as models of success, including Cheziya High School, CZM, and St Paul’s Primary School. With the continued influence of the G-Factor, many more schools are poised to realise their full potential.
