GWERU – The Midlands State University (MSU) Faculty of Education conducted a high-impact, two-day training workshop at Mkoba Teachers’ College from 24 to 25 March 2026.
The initiative aimed to sharpen pedagogy, andragogy, assessment, and research supervision in alignment with Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 agenda.
Attended by more than 65 lecturers, the seminar addressed the urgent need to reimagine teaching not as a static set of techniques, but as a responsive, student-centred practice that bridges academic theory with industrial demand.
Dr A. Moyo, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education, established the seminar’s trajectory by prioritising the design of valid, reliable, and competence-driven assessments.
“We must design assessments that are valid, reliable, and driven by competence, while refining supervision to produce rigorous and impactful research,” Dr Moyo stated.
Her address served as a catalyst for moving beyond theoretical ideals toward measurable, real-world outcomes in both instruction and inquiry.
During an interactive session, Dr. S. Shoko, a Faculty Chairperson, challenged lecturers to recalibrate their delivery methods.
Drawing on behaviourist learning theories, Dr. Shoko demonstrated how structured reinforcement significantly boosts student comprehension and retention.
Reinforcing this shift, Professor S. Muchemwa noted: “Student engagement must move from passive instruction to interactive, student-centred learning that builds critical thinking and collaboration.”
This resonated deeply with participants, many of whom acknowledged that transitioning from the “sage on the stage” to a “guide on the side” remains one of the most demanding yet essential transformations in modern higher education.
The workshop also tackled the complexities of academic inquiry. Dr. W. Dzimiri, a Faculty Lecturer, provided a comprehensive guide to research paradigms, empowering lecturers to navigate diverse methodological approaches with greater precision.
Expanding on the theme of institutional evolution, Lecturer Dr. M. Chauraya added: “Assessment systems must become adaptive and competency-based, reflecting both global trends and local developmental needs.”
In an era where traditional examinations often fail to measure genuine ability, Dr. Chauraya’s insights highlighted a significant shift currently transforming Zimbabwe’s teacher education landscape.
Closing the proceedings, Dr. S.S. Mashingaidze commended the facilitators and participants for their commitment to professional excellence.
The event reaffirmed MSU’s dedication to Education 5.0, equipping educators with the innovative tools and supervision skills required to drive a transformative, industry-relevant curriculum.