St Ignatius College Biography

Background

St. Ignatius College is a Catholic and Jesuit secondary school located in Chishawasha, about 25 kilometers from Harare, Zimbabwe. The school was founded in 1962 by the Jesuit Fathers to address the educational needs of black students who were excluded from white-only schools during the colonial era. The college was established as a brother institution to St. George's College in Harare and has grown to become a respected educational institution in Zimbabwe.

Foundation and Early Years

The college began with the construction of its administration block in 1961, which initially served as accommodation for the Jesuit community. The Community House was built in 1967, and the school chapel was completed in the same year. St. Ignatius College operated as a boys-only school until 1971, after which it started admitting girls for Advanced Level studies.

Academic Program

St. Ignatius College follows the Cambridge International curriculum, offering IGCSE, AS Level, and Advanced Level examinations. The school is known for its strong academic performance. In 2021, it achieved a 100% pass rate in AS and A Level exams, and a 97.2% pass rate at O Level and IGCSE, with several students earning top grades. The school was ranked third among Zimbabwe’s top 100 A-Level schools in 2024, with a 99.75% pass rate.

Subjects Offered

• IGCSE (Forms 1–4): English Language, Mathematics, Religious Education, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Accounting, Biology, Physics, Geography, Literature in English, History, French, Shona.
• A/AS Level (Forms 5–6): Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, History, Divinity, Literature in English, Geography, Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Computer Science, Design and Technology.

School Philosophy

The college operates under Jesuit educational principles, focusing on four main values:

• Competence
• Compassion
• Conscience
• Commitment

These values aim to develop students who are academically capable, socially responsible, and morally aware.

Facilities

St. Ignatius College has modern classrooms with smartboards, computer and science laboratories, a swimming pool, sports fields, a library, and boarding facilities. The school has invested in upgrading its infrastructure to support learning and extracurricular activities.

Sports and Extracurricular Activities

Students participate in various sports such as rugby, basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, tennis, athletics, cricket, hockey, and cross-country running. The college also offers clubs including Christian Life Community, Leo Club, Interact Club, Toastmasters, Chess, Quiz, Drama, Debate, First Aid, and Young Achievers Zimbabwe.

Leadership and Governance

The school is governed by the Jesuit Provincial of Southern Africa. The current headmaster is Mr. Hamilton Maganga, with Professor Fr. Lawrence Daka SJ serving as Rector and Mr. Hatrick Chiwanda as Deputy Headmaster. Mr. Tafadzwa Chinamo is the Chairman of the Board of Governors.

Transition to Private Status

In January 2020, St. Ignatius College became a private institution, moving from government-aided status. This change was made to preserve educational standards and allow more autonomy in curriculum and infrastructure development while maintaining its Catholic and Jesuit identity.

Notable Alumni

The college has produced graduates who have contributed to various fields, including medicine, business, and public service. Some notable alumni are Dr. Adolf Chikasha, a pioneer student and physician; Mr. Tafadzwa Chinamo, CEO of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe; and Host Mapondera, CEO of Lake Harvest Group.

See where St Ignatius College ranks on the top 100 list of best A Level Schools in Zimbabwe in 2025.