Gweru, 26 June 2025— Midlands State University (MSU) has set a new benchmark for academic transparency by hosting its first open viva voce examinations for Doctor of Business Leadership (DBL) candidates.
The sessions, held at the University’s Gweru Main Campus, transformed traditional doctoral assessments into dynamic, community-engaged scholarly events.
The innovative format allowed faculty members, postgraduate students, and industry professionals to observe the rigorous intellectual scrutiny of doctoral theses in real time.
Spearheaded by the Postgraduate Studies Office and the Graduate School of Business Leadership (GSLB), the initiative underscores MSU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive research culture.
Dr. M. Mugwati, Executive Dean of Business Sciences, opened proceedings, stating: “These public vivas mark a turning point in how we acknowledge and assess scholarly work.
“We are not only evaluating knowledge; we are sharing it.”
Three candidates—Mr. William Manungo, Mr. Batsirayi Kufakunesu, and Mr. Claybough Mapfumo—presented pioneering research on governance in state enterprises, financial regulation, and community-driven development.
Each defence followed a structured format: a timed research presentation, a critical interrogation by an academic opponent, industry expert input on real-world applications, open-floor Q&A with attendees, and private panel deliberation and immediate feedback.
The multi-stakeholder approach reinforced the academic rigour and practical relevance of the DBL programme.
Dr. U. Saidi, Postgraduate Studies Manager, highlighted the initiative’s broader impact: “By lifting the veil on the doctoral examination process, we build trust, inspire younger scholars, and ensure research remains connected to the communities it serves.”
Notable attendees included Professor M. Maphosa – Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Administration, Professor H.T. Ngoshi – Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, and senior university leaders.
Participants praised the model’s professionalism and inclusivity, with MSU now moving to institutionalise open vivas for future doctoral examinations.