In a historic event that highlights the University’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, Midlands State University hosted a groundbreaking Inaugural International Disability and Inclusivity Music Festival at Gweru Main Campus on the 25th of September 2024.
Celebrated under the theme, “Integrating and Empowering Persons with Disability Through Musical Art,” the event attracted primary and high school students, disability advocacy organisations, and higher learning institutions.
Delivering welcome remarks on behalf of MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa, the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Campus Development, Dr. G. Manyatera highlighted that the University recognises the need for providing an enabling environment for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
‘’The festival we are launching today provides a vibrant platform for PWDs from Zimbabwe to perform their music and dance.
“It is a space where their talents are not only acknowledged but celebrated; hence we intend to reinforce and amplify the efforts of various organisations dedicated to inclusivity, hoping to transform society and industry perception,’’ indicated Dr. Manyatera.
In a society where people living with disabilities have often been denied the opportunity to showcase their talents on prominent platforms, Dr. Manyatera pointed out that the University has responded by organising the national music festival which not only priotises inclusivity and places people with disabilities at the forefront but aligns seamlessly with the national theme of building a prosperous Zimbabwe which leaves no one and no place behind.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the representative Senator for persons with disabilities in Zimbabwe, Senator Ms. A. Shiri, Senior Lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, Dr. E. Mutetwa applauded MSU for the groundbreaking initiative highlighting that the event will provide persons living with disabilities an opportunity to showcase their talents.
With well crafted bits of harmonious instruments infused with powerful vocals from the live music performances, the event showcased the extraordinary talents of persons with disabilities in the realm of music and performances.
Throughout the festival, attendees explored a unique taste and experience of music performances from the MSU Music Band, Albinism Konnect Music Band, Paivepo Cultural Group, Prince Edward School Music Band, Jairos Jiri Narans Band, Mkoba Teachers College, Seke Teachers’ College, Senga Secondary School, Petty Masendeke, Takesure Jonas, Lovejoy Mashingaidze and Bonwel Chikuvane, prompting the audiences to erupt into an ecstasy of joy as they sang and danced along.
During the event, MSU Level 2.2 Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Business, Musicology and Technology student, John Munodawafa, gave a testimonial of how MSU has been supportive to students with special needs, particularly those studying Music Business, Musicology and Technology.
“MSU has been very supportive to students with special needs such as the visually impaired through the purchasing of supportive learning materials regardless of how expensive they are.
“It is through MSU, the only University offering a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Business, Musicology and Technology across the country that students like me realised their full potential in music through the availed support”, testified John.
In his closing remarks, Chairperson Department of Music Business, Musicology and Technology Dr. C. Chipendo highlighted that the festival will not be a one-time event but an event that will see people gathering at MSU yearly to celebrate and advance inclusivity.
As the event drew to a close, the guest speaker was presented with a gift.
The event highlighted that the University is a melting pot of inclusivity and diversity.