About the Challenge
A national competition of knowledge, built for young Zimbabweans.
The Munhumutapa Grand Challenge exists to find, test and recognise the sharpest young minds in the country, and to put Zimbabwe's history, present and future at the centre of the contest.
Vision
To become a respected national intellectual competition that celebrates Zimbabwean heritage, recognises intellectual excellence and inspires young people to contribute to national development.
Mission
To provide a platform where young Zimbabweans can test their knowledge, develop their intellectual abilities and compete for recognition at provincial and national levels.
Objectives
What the Challenge sets out to do
Promote knowledge of Zimbabwean history and heritage.
Encourage understanding of leadership, governance and national development.
Identify and recognise knowledgeable and intellectually capable young people.
Promote awareness of African affairs and global developments.
Encourage innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving.
Create opportunities for youth participation and intellectual development.
Background
Where the name comes from, and where the Challenge is going
The Munhumutapa Grand Challenge takes its name from the Mutapa state, one of the great kingdoms of southern Africa. The name is a reminder that Zimbabwe has a long record of organised learning, trade and statecraft, and that the young people of today inherit that record.
The Challenge is a new national competition. Its organisers are preparing the first qualifying round in Harare, with provincial competitions and a national championship to follow once arrangements are confirmed. Dates, venues and prize funding will be published on this website as they are finalised.
Who can participate
The Challenge is open to Zimbabwean citizens aged 18 to 35. The official competition rules will state the date on which age is assessed, the documents required to prove identity and age, and any further conditions of entry.
What the Challenge covers
- Zimbabwe's historical heritage, from the early kingdoms to the present day.
- Liberation history, sovereignty and national identity.
- National development, including the policies and programmes of the Second Republic under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
- African affairs, regional institutions and global developments.
- Science, technology, innovation and general knowledge.
Scope
From Harare to every province
Harare first
The first qualifying challenge will take place in Harare. Registration will open for Harare before any other province.
All ten provinces
Qualifying challenges will then be held in Bulawayo, Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Masvingo, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Midlands.
A national championship
Provincial winners progress to a national championship, where the national champion is decided and the confirmed awards are presented.
Across Africa, in time
The long-term ambition is a continental challenge that brings young people from across Africa together around shared history and shared futures.