By TellZim Reporter,
Buzzers, anticipation, and cheer filled the Heritage Village as the Old Mutual High Schools Quiz Finals brought Zimbabwe’s brightest young minds together for a night of celebration, intellect, and inspiration, with Catholic-run Marist Brothers Nyanga High School emerging as winners for the fourth time.
Marist Brothers Nyanga High from Nyanga District of Manicaland Province walked away with a cash prize of $7,000, while Masvingo Province’s Catholic-run St. Anthony’s High from Zaka District came second and received a $5,000 cash prize.
The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ)-run Pamushana High School from Bikita District of Masvingo came third with $3,000, while fourth-placed Fletcher High from Gweru, Midlands Province, walked away with a $1,000 cash prize.
Ten schools from a pool of over 326 that began the competition at zonal level and battled through provincial knockouts earned their place at the national stage.
In addition to the cash prizes, learners from the top teams received laptops, smartphones, iPads, trophies, and medals in recognition of their outstanding performance.
In his welcome address, Old Mutual Group Chief Executive Officer Samuel Matsekete reflected on the deeper meaning of the quiz competition.
“From its humble beginnings in 1983, the Old Mutual High School Quiz has evolved into one of Zimbabwe’s most respected academic platforms, a movement that connects provinces, uncovers talent, and fuels a culture of excellence,”
“Education remains a core pillar of our Responsible Business Strategy. Through initiatives like the High School Quiz, Old Mutual continues to invest in building a generation that is not only academically capable but also socially conscious, confident, and equipped to shape the future,” said Matsekete.
Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Professor Paul Mavima, paid tribute to the life skills embedded in the quiz format. “The Old Mutual Quiz is not merely a contest of facts but a principle of mental agility and strategic intellect. Every participant has learned how to think, process complex information, and perform under pressure—core competencies that shape not only academic success but careers across all sectors of the economy,” said Mavima.
This year’s finals capped off a two-day program that included financial education through Old Mutual’s “On the Money” program, mental wellness sessions, and an immersive educational tour of Liberation City.
The experience was designed to expose learners to leadership, wellness, and real-world skills beyond the classroom, making it not just a competition but a life-changing journey.
As the curtains closed on the 42nd edition of the National High Schools Quiz, it was clear that the Old Mutual High Schools Quiz is no longer just a tournament.
It’s a growing national tradition that continues to shape futures, ignite dreams, and empower young Zimbabweans to lead with knowledge, pride, and purpose.
