Being a stakeholder-driven institution, Midlands State University (MSU) continues to enjoy the support and generosity of its strategic partner Commercial Bank of Zimbabwe (CBZ), which has partnered the institution in various ways enabling the University to maintain its position as a pace-setter among tertiary institutions. Friday the 26th of February 2016 witnessed CBZ donating ninety-four outdoor benches and forty-eight tables to MSU as part of efforts to participate in student welfare initiatives.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Muzvidziwa pointed out that the relationship between MSU and CBZ Holdings had stood the test of time, with the two institutions partnering in a number of initiatives. He highlighted that through loan and mortgage facilities that are offered by CBZ, a sizeable number of MSU staff members now own houses in Senga and Mtausi Park whilst others are in the process of building.
“Today’s donation of outdoor benches and tables will go a long way in helping to meet the needs of our student body by providing them with additional outdoor facilities where they can come together and discuss, relax, share notes, meals or even a joke or two in between their lectures or during their spare time,” said Professor Muzvidziwa.
As the University continually endeavours to create an ambient and conducive environment for students, both in and outside the lecture room, the contribution was a shot in the arm and a most welcome development that would enable MSU to realise its goals. The outdoor furniture does not only serve as meeting places but also as creative places where students can find inspiration as well as spaces for reflection.
The Pro-Vice Chancellor also assured the CBZ team that the donation would be put to good use and will be distributed in all the respective campuses.
Speaking while commissioning the outdoor furniture, the CBZ Southern Region Manager, Mr Abisha Gweshe, said the bank treasured the long standing relationship that exists between CBZ and Midlands State University which dates back to 1999.
“For CBZ, we do not regard this as a donation but rather an investment. We are quite alive to the completion in the financial sector and as such, we do not take for granted our association with MSU. We continue to nurture our relationship with MSU and would want to grow with the institution. We want to be part of MSU’s success and hence we are willing to partner in the best way we can. We are pleased to learn that some of the outdoor benches and tables will be used at the recently established Zvishavane campus and we are proud to partner in the development of your new establishment,” said Mr Gweshe.
The event was also graced by the Gweru Branch Manager Mr Nobert Zinaka, Mr Joel Gambera the Senior Manager Group Marketing, Mr Henry Njanji the Relationship Manager in Regional and State Enterprises and several University senior staff.