Gweru, Zimbabwe – 28 March 2025 – In a momentous event that underscored the vital nexus between academia, policy, and agricultural innovation, Midlands State University (MSU) hosted an illuminating public lecture delivered by Professor O. Jiri, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
The occasion marked a pivotal stride towards fostering dynamic collaborations between the University and the Ministry, with far-reaching implications for Zimbabwe’s climate resilience and food sovereignty.
Held as part of MSU’s 25th Anniversary Celebrations, the lecture convened students, scholars, and government officials under the compelling theme: “From Fields to Future: Catalysing Human Capital, Innovation, and Community-Led Research for Climate-Resilient Agricultural Systems in Zimbabwe – A Blueprint for Industrialisation and Food Sovereignty.”
The event commenced with an exclusive tour of the Faculty of Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources Management’s flagship projects, including the groundbreaking MSU Cannabis Research Centre.
Professor Jiri and his delegation were visibly impressed, lauding the faculty for its high-impact research initiatives that align with national development priorities.
Professor C. Parwadza, Executive Dean of the Faculty, opened the proceedings with an incisive introduction, extolling Professor Jiri as a renowned scholar, agricultural visionary, and policy architect whose expertise bridges academia, industry, and governance.
The 25th anniversary milestone lent profound significance to the gathering, with Professor M. Maphosa, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Administration, reflecting on MSU’s enduring legacy.
“For a quarter of a century, MSU has served as a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and transformative impact, shaping Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape,” remarked Professor Maphosa.
To date, the University has produced over 80,000 graduates across diverse disciplines, including Agriculture, many of whom are driving change globally.
Looking ahead, Professor Maphosa affirmed, “This anniversary is not merely a reflection on our past but a springboard into a future where MSU will continue to lead in teaching, research, community engagement, innovation, and industrialisation.”
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa, Dr. G. Manyatera, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Campus Development, urged the Ministry to harness MSU’s expertise in developing human capital for resilient agricultural systems.
“As Midlands State University, we stand ready and capable of cultivating the talent needed to drive sustainable agriculture.
“To deepen this mission, we invite the Ministry to collaborate with us in establishing two pivotal initiatives: a Climate Change Research Desk to pioneer adaptive strategies for Zimbabwe’s farmers, and a Rice Breeding and Value Chain Development Desk to bolster food security and agro-industrial growth,”* declared Dr. Manyatera.
Professor Jiri delivered a powerful keynote, challenging traditional agricultural paradigms and advocating for a synergistic approach between policymakers, universities, and farming communities.
“The effective deployment of modern and smart technologies is non-negotiable if we are to revolutionise our agricultural sector.
“We must leverage ICTs to transform extension services, adopt automated irrigation, and implement smart greenhouses and fertigation systems. Universities must lead this charge, ensuring research transcends academia and reaches the farmer’s field,” he asserted.
Emphasising MSU’s pivotal role, Professor Jiri urged the institution to spearhead innovations in drought-resistant crops, smart irrigation technologies, and sustainable agribusiness models to fortify Zimbabwe’s food systems against climate shocks.
The lecture culminated in a lively question and answer session, where students raised pressing questions on land access, funding mechanisms, and youth inclusion in agriculture.
In a symbolic gesture of partnership, Professor Jiri was presented with a token of appreciation, heralding the dawn of a transformative alliance.
As Midlands State University continues to champion excellence and innovation, this public lecture stands as a resounding testament to its commitment to forging strategic partnerships that will propel Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation and national development agenda.
With its bold vision and unwavering dedication, MSU is poised to play a defining role in shaping a resilient, food-secure future for Zimbabwe.