By McGeorge Mbare
THE Matabeleland South Province has selected 140 pupils across various categories to represent the province at the National Annual Science, Sports and Arts Festival (NASAF) 2026, scheduled to take place in September.
The pupils were selected during the Provincial Annual Science, Sports and Arts Festival (PASAF) held at Oakleigh House on Friday, August 4, 2026.
Among the 140 representatives are dance groups, bands, models, dancers, science and mathematics exhibitors and participants in other extra-curricular activities.
The Matabeleland South team was drawn from the province’s 7 districts namely Bulilima, Mangwe, Gwanda South, Matobo, Insiza, Gwanda North and host district Beitbridge.
Addressing the selected provincial representatives, Matabeleland South Chief Director for Provincial Education Services , Beatrice Manjere expressed her appreciation to the team.
“You are representing 260, 000 pupils across the province. So represent us well at the National Annual Science, Sports and Arts Festival. I really wish you the best,” she said.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, Minister of State for Matabeleland South, also expressed the importance of PASAF.
He said the activities form part of the Heritage Based Curriculum, which challenges schools to be innovative.
“The Heritage Based Curriculum challenges us to produce learners who are innovative, patriotic, self-reliant and grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu. Through this curriculum, learners are encouraged to preserve and celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich culture, while embracing science, technology and innovation as drivers of sustainable development,” Nguluvhe said.
He said PASAF activities serve as an important bridge between education, culture, innovation and national identity.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this platform prepares our learners for the future because the youth are the future ,” he said.