Midlands State University Vice Chancellor Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa officially welcomed a new cohort of students to the Gweru campus on 19 February 2026, during a formal orientation ceremony at the Multipurpose Hall.
Acting Executive Dean of Student Affairs, Mr. K. Mafa, opened the proceedings by highlighting the prestigious nature of the institution the students have now joined.
“Your coming in today is a defining milestone, not just for you, but for us as an institution. You are joining a community built on the pillars of scholarship, innovation, industrialisation and development,” Mr. Mafa said.
Acting Registrar, Mrs. S. Masuku, introduced the senior leadership team to the assembled students.
Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Administration, Professor M. Maphosa, set an optimistic tone for the incoming class before introducing the Vice Chancellor.
“I commend you for choosing to embark on this journey with MSU. I want to assure you that you are about to have a fruitful academic experience,” Professor Maphosa said.
Vice Chancellor Professor V.N. Muzvidziwa delivered the keynote address, framing the students’ education as a vital engine for the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2).
“You are the future engineers, teachers, scientists, lawyers, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders who will carry our nation forward. As students of Midlands State University, you are expected to engage with communities ethically, respectfully, and meaningfully, applying your knowledge to real-life challenges and contributing to inclusive national development,” Professor Muzvidziwa said.
Student Representative Council Vice President, Mr. T. S. Tavengwa, representing SRC President Ms. K.S. Mutangabende, expressed gratitude to the administration for their dedication to student success.
Tavengwa rallied the newcomers with a spirit of unity that emphasised the institution’s inclusive culture.
“#WEAREMSU. That is not just a hashtag; it is a statement of fact. It means that MSU is a family, and we are all part of it,” Tavengwa said.
The orientation programme inducts students into a culture of research and innovation aimed at producing holistic graduates.
This commitment to industrialisation and modernisation ensures that MSU graduates are prepared to lead the “Africa We Want” as envisioned in the African Union Agenda 2063.