In celebration of Space Week, Midlands State University’s Faculty of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA), hosted a dynamic programme titled “Space Exploration: Engaging the Next Generation” at the Gweru Main Campus on 4 April 2025.
The event aimed to inspire and educate future leaders in space exploration, drawing A-Level students from Fletcher, Chaplin, and Thornhill High Schools, alongside university stakeholders and students.
Delivering the welcome remarks on behalf of Dr. Action Nechibvute, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, was Dr. Munyaradzi Shumba, the Faculty’s Deputy Dean.
He highlighted that this Space Week marked the university’s inaugural event of its kind.
“This journey began on 4 April 2025 at Midlands State University, and as this is our first gathering, I am confident we will achieve meaningful outcomes,” said Dr. Shumba.
He also announced the introduction of a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Space Science and Technology—the first such programme in Zimbabwe—scheduled to commence in August.
“I am pleased to confirm that we will be launching a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Space Science and Technology this August,” Dr Shumba stated.
Mr. Harry Mafukidze, Chairperson of Applied Physics at Midlands State University, provided an overview of the new programme, emphasising its significance for the institution and its potential to shape the future of incoming students.
Mr. Felex Chivave, ZINGSA’s Business Development Manager, delivered a comprehensive overview of the agency’s operations, stressing its core mission to promote the peaceful use of space and advance geospatial science research.
“Our primary mission is to ensure the peaceful use of space, thereby fostering advancements in geospatial science,” said Mr. Chivave.
The event featured insightful presentations from ZINGSA’s space scientists, including esteemed alumnus Mr. Tawanda Simon, who expressed gratitude for returning to the institution that nurtured his aspirations.
Following the presentations, the programme took an engaging turn as attendees explored the mysteries of space, posing thought-provoking questions and sharing their curiosity about the cosmos.
Recognising the challenge of conveying the vastness of space, ZINGSA representatives immersed participants in a virtual reality (VR) experience, unveiling cosmic wonders in an interactive and enlightening session—all from the comfort of their seats.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Lewis Dube, a lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Technology, thanked the attending schools and encouraged young women to pursue careers in STEM, highlighting the critical need for greater female representation in the field.
Midlands State University’s inaugural Space Week event cemented its role as a pioneer in space education, inspiring the next generation of explorers, showcasing innovative projects, and stimulating profound discussions on the mysteries of the universe.