In a landmark visit, the Honourable Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Ambassador Dr. Frederick Makamure-Shava, embarked on a two-day familiarisation tour of Midlands State University (MSU) from 12 to 13 March 2025.
The tour showcased MSU’s transformative impact on national development and its alignment with Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 agenda.
Welcoming the Minister and his delegation in Chirumhanzu, MSU Vice Chancellor Professor Victor Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa lauded the Government of Zimbabwe for its unwavering financial support, which he described as a cornerstone of the University’s success.
“The Government’s steadfast backing has empowered us to spearhead high-impact research and drive community transformation,” said Professor Muzvidziwa.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted MSU’s remarkable achievements, including its impressive 18th position in the 2024 Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings by the prestigious Times Higher Education Index.
This recognition underscores MSU’s growing influence as a hub of academic excellence and innovation.
The Minister was treated to a virtual tour of MSU’s expansive footprint across Zimbabwe, followed by an in-depth exploration of the University’s groundbreaking projects.
These included community-based initiatives in Chirumhanzu, the Modified Coal Plant, the MSU Radio Station in Zvishavane, the Industrial Park, the National Pathology Research and Diagnostic Centre, the Innovation Hub, the MSU Cannabis Centre, and the ED Mnangagwa School of Law Campus in Kwekwe.
At the Innovation Hub, Dr. Shava was captivated by a vibrant ecosystem of creativity, where ideas are transformed into tangible goods and services.
“The developments I witnessed during my time here have left an indelible mark, reinforcing my conviction that MSU is a pivotal contributor to national development,” remarked Dr. Shava.
The tour highlighted MSU’s commitment to Education 5.0, which positions higher and tertiary institutions as engines of national progress through knowledge creation, innovation, and human capital development.
Among the standout initiatives was the ecotourism project in Chirumhanzu, which Dr. Shava hailed as a shining example of MSU’s dedication to rural industrialisation.
“Such facilities exemplify MSU’s resolve to advance rural industrialisation and uplift communities,” he noted.
With its focus on research, innovation, industrialisation, and community engagement, MSU continues to play a leading role in shaping Zimbabwe’s future.
As the University for Tomorrow, MSU remains steadfast in its mission to drive national development and transform lives.