Magaya’s Boarding School Continues Advertising Despite Long History of Kids’ Abuse – Eduzim News

Magaya-Linked School Filchrist Hill Faces Controversy Amid New Advertisements

By Dorrothy Moyo | Filchrist Hill Boarding School, a Shamva-based institution linked to controversial preacher Walter Magaya, has resurfaced in the spotlight after a new advertisement for student enrollment was posted on social media. The advert, promoted through a socialite’s Facebook page, has reignited concerns surrounding the school, which has faced repeated allegations of abuse and misconduct over the years.

Background of Controversy

The school, led by headmaster Jebes Muchapondwa, has been at the center of scandal since 2019, when parents accused him of sexually, physically, and emotionally abusing students. Reports allege that Muchapondwa subjected students to inappropriate behavior, including making girls work long hours, verbally abusing them, and entering female hostels unannounced.

The most alarming allegations involve claims that Muchapondwa cut the hair of female students and took it to Magaya’s church for suspected rituals. Concerned parents told ZimEye they feared their children were being groomed for purposes beyond education.

One parent revealed:

“Female pupils are called to the headmaster’s office at 10 p.m. for closed-door discussions. There is no matron, and the headmaster enters the female hostels even when learners are bathing. My daughter was verbally abused and told she had ‘jelly buttocks.’ When I confronted him, he blocked me.”

Despite the gravity of these accusations, no concrete actions were taken to address them, leaving parents disillusioned and fearful for their children’s safety.

Boardroom Squabbles and Leadership Issues

In addition to allegations of abuse, Filchrist Hill has also been plagued by internal management problems. Earlier this year, Jebes Muchapondwa stepped down from his role in the Premier Netball League due to irreconcilable differences. This resignation further cast a shadow over his leadership at the school.

Muchapondwa, who has also withdrawn his teams from national netball leagues, cited frustration with unresolved conflicts, adding to questions about his ability to manage both sports and educational initiatives effectively.

Magaya’s Involvement

The connection between Filchrist Hill and Walter Magaya, a convicted medical fraudster, has fueled public skepticism about the school’s integrity. Magaya’s controversial history, coupled with allegations of ritualistic practices at the school, has led to calls for increased scrutiny and accountability.

New Advertisements Amid Old Scandals

The school’s recent Facebook advertisement, encouraging parents to enroll their children, has sparked mixed reactions. Many wonder whether the institution can rebuild trust given its history of abuse allegations and managerial disputes.

The advertisement, featuring a socialite endorsing the school, promotes opportunities at Filchrist Hill Boarding School while omitting its checkered past. Observers have questioned whether families will be willing to send their children to an institution mired in controversy.

Public Reaction and Calls for Accountability

The resurfacing of Filchrist Hill in the public eye has reignited calls for government intervention and thorough investigations into the allegations against Muchapondwa and the school’s connection to Walter Magaya.

“This school has a history that no amount of advertising can erase. Parents must think twice before enrolling their children here,” said one concerned citizen.

As Filchrist Hill attempts to attract new students, its ability to address past accusations and restore its reputation remains uncertain. The situation raises broader questions about accountability and governance in private educational institutions across Zimbabwe.

This is a developing story. Updates to follow.

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