His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Chancellor of the Midlands State University, Cde. Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, on Friday the 24th of November 2023 conferred a record grand total of 8332 graduates at the University’s Gweru Main Campus.
The graduation class was the largest in MSU’s history, with over half (54.1%) being female students.
There were also ten (10) Doctor of Philosophy and four (4) Master of Philosophy graduates.
The MSU 24th Graduation Ceremony took place against the background of the death of the University’s founding Vice Chancellor, Professor N. M. Bhebe.
University Chaplain, Reverent Chinodakufa, asked all participants to observe a moment of silence for the late Professor Emeritus Ngwabi Bhebe, who played a pivotal role in establishing MSU.
Addressing the celebratory crowd at the graduation ceremony, MSU Vice Chancellor Professor Victor Muzvidziwa paid tribute to the University’s founding father, the late Professor Ngwabi Bhebe.
“This exceptionally high number of graduands is a testament to Professor Bhebe’s sacrifice and vision for this institution,” remarked Professor Muzvidziwa said.
Professor Muzvidziwa praised the graduates for their “diligent efforts and intellectual discipline,” and thanked parents, guardians and sponsors for enabling their education.
After highlighting how the President is the mastermind of the innovation-driven and industrialisation focused Education 5.0 philosophy, he reaffirmed MSU’s commitment to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation.
In his role as MSU Chancellor, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa conferred degrees on the graduands.
After an alumni pledge reiterating their commitment to MSU, the new graduates joined the University’s ranks as proud alumni.
The graduation ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, among them Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Professor Dr. Amon Murwira, Vice Chancellors from sister universities, members of the University Council and Senate, captains of industry, parents and guardians as well as members of the University Community.
MSU’s growth exemplifies its dedication to expanding access to quality higher education across Zimbabwe and advancing national development.