01 Oct 2019

The deputy mayor of Francistown, Mr Godisang Radisigo says John Mackenzie Schools (JMS) 120 years celebration calls for the country to look back with pride regarding the milestone achieved in the education sector.

Speaking at the schools 120 years celebration, Mr Radisigo said JMS had continued to register different gains in its enrollment due largely to enabling philosophy coupled with blessings of visionary leaders.

He said JMS grew from humble beginnings to its present status, “thanks to the commitment of its visionary leadership.”

The deputy mayor said JMS was a household name in the country’s education circles, adding that since it became a private school, it saw a rapid increase in its enrollment from the two learners at its inception to over 400 leaners today.

He said the 120 years under the theme Ti Tzi Muzila (We on the way) offered a reminder that although there was a rich history of achievements, there was still a long way to go, adding that JMS would always provide quality education.

Mr Radisigo said in 1958 the school was renamed John Mackenzie School from Francistown European School in honour of the distinguished deputy commissioner of Bechuanaland Protectorate, Reverend John Mackenzie.

For his part, the deputy principal of JMS, Mr Clement Mpofu said the school was a multicultural family with people from various cultural backgrounds and preached tolerance, acceptance, unity and diversity.

He said the school was a formidable force despite all the cultural differences, adding that as much as they emphasised on academics and sports, it would be unnecessary to turn a blind eye to the cultural aspect on which cultural erosion has taken its way.

He noted that JMS has an enrollment of over 400 pupils in primary school and aimed at  excellence in academics.

Mr Mpofu said as the school celebrates 120 years, it takes introspection of its journey from where the school started and where it was going.

He said the founder of the school was motivated by the 120 pupils who were without any form of education hence the motive to start the school.

Mr Mpofu said they continued to change and improve so as to remain relevant. ENDs