Cuthbert Mashoko
Centre News Hub
MWENEZI – Scores of education officials, teachers, and community members from across Masvingo Province gathered at the Chirhilele homestead in Mariot, Regedzai on 1 August to celebrate the retirement of Takunda Primary School Head, Salpisio Chirhilele, after 30 years of dedicated service to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
The event began with a Holy Mass led by Fr Mabikwa of Rutenga Parish. In his sermon, Fr Mabikwa reminded congregants of living out God’s purpose.
“God is just. He created everyone for a purpose. Mr Chirhilele did his part, and we are gathered here as a church to honour his contribution to society,” he said.
Guest of Honour, Schools Inspector Strike Ncube*, recalled his early working relationship with Mr Chirhilele when he was Teacher-in-Charge at Mariot Primary, which then fell under Rutenga Primary.
“During my tenure as Head at Rutenga Primary, I came to know Mr Chirhilele. He carried out his duties diligently,” Ncube said.
He went on to trace Mr Chirhilele’s rise through the ranks.
“He approached me seeking guidance on promotion to Substantive Deputy Head. I supported him. He applied, passed the interviews, and was posted to Chiredzi. He did not stop there. He became a Substantive Head in Chiredzi before returning to serve in Mwenezi. As a School Head here, he did not disappoint.
He was diligent. Today we are gathered to appreciate him. He is also a hardworking farmer who once hosted a National Field Day.
Education leaders from Chiredzi District also attended to honour a former colleague.
Tinashe Gumbo, Schools Inspector for Chiredzi, described Mr Chirhilele as a unifier and ethical leader.
“Mr Chirhilele was a problem solver who preferred amicable solutions. He taught us professional conduct, which we still cherish. He served as District NAPH Treasurer in Chiredzi and accounted for every cent,” Gumbo said.
Village Head Mai Regedzai praised his role beyond the classroom.
“As local leadership, we are proud of Mr Chirhilele. His leadership was not confined to school. He was a father figure to the village. Now that he has retired, we welcome him as a full-time advisor in the community.”
The celebrations featured performances by Mariot Primary learners and traditional breakdown dances by elders welcoming Mr Chirhilele into retirement.
Mr Chirhilele began his teaching career in 1990 at Zvirikure Primary School in Mwenezi and steadily rose to become a Substantive Head.
