Midlands State University Zvishavane campus recently hosted an International Cultural Diversity Carnival with students exhibiting different cultures and dressing, amid calls by various stakeholders for the country to take stock of cultural gains.
Running under the theme, Celebrating Culture, Celebrating Diversity through Unity, the event that was held on 11 May 2017, was intended to encourage communities to celebrate their respective cultural practices while recognizing the diversified cultural traits that make Zimbabwe a dynamic nation.
Addressing the multitude of students, staff and key stakeholders who were present on the day, Professor William Chigidi from the Department of African languages, highlighted the importance of observing different cultures and the need to unite despite the vast cultural differences. Professor Chigidi also noted that events such as the Cultural Diversity Festival promote unity amongst students of different cultures.
In his keynote address Professor Chigidi emphasized the fact that cultural diversity is a driving force of development, not only with respect to economic growth, but also as a means of leading a more fulfilling intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual life. In this respect, cultural diversity is, therefore, an asset that is indispensable for poverty reduction and the achievement of sustainable development.
At the same time, acceptance and recognition of cultural diversity – in particular through innovative use of media and Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) – are conducive to dialogue among civilizations and cultures, respect and mutual understanding.
Performances by the highly-acclaimed music and dance groups from the department of Film and Theatre Arts punctuated the event while art and craft exhibitions and a modelling contest added colour.
Film and Theatre Arts student Nyarai Masunga, was crowned Miss MSU Carnival Zvishavane Campus while Tafara Makuyana and Tinodiwanashe Makunike were crowned 1st and 2nd princess respectively.
The event was capped off with the serving of traditional dishes for lunch.