Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau
TWO-THOUSAND-ONE-HUNDRED-AND-FIFTEEN students graduated yesterday at Bindura University of Science Education as the institution reaffirmed its position as a powerhouse of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.
Of the graduates, 1 098 (52 percent) were female and 1 017 (48 percent) were male.
A total of 1 332 students graduated with first degrees, 405 earned master’s degrees, three received doctorates, 341 obtained diplomas and 25 completed postgraduate diplomas.
The university, which is also celebrating its silver jubilee, marked its 25th anniversary with groundbreaking achievements that align with Zimbabwe’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy.
BUSE plans to host the 2027 Women in Physics Conference, the first time in Africa, further cementing its position as a leader in STEM (science, technology engineering and mathematics) education and scientific innovation.
Addressing the silver jubilee graduation ceremony in Bindura, Vice Chancellor Professor Eddie Mwenje said the university evolved from a specialised science education college into a comprehensive institution driving innovation and industrialisation in line with the national Education 5.0 philosophy.
From its humble beginnings with only 113 students in 2000, BUSE now boasts over 7 000, with 74 percent enrolled in STEM programmes.
To date, more than 25 000 graduates have been produced, including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs and educationists serving across Zimbabwe and beyond.
In a major stride toward industrialisation, President Mnangagwa commissioned the university’s Industrial Park and Palpo Technologies Assembly Plant, producing locally assembled laptops, tablets and smartphones.
The facility has a monthly capacity of over 40 000 devices, including the “Titus” artificial intelligence tool preloaded on educational devices, bridging Zimbabwe’s digital divide.
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The university also established Africa’s first university-owned prescription lens production facility, capable of producing 1 200 pairs of lenses daily, drastically reducing the cost and waiting time for eye care.
Other innovations include “Chiringa,” a real-time monitoring and evaluation system now adopted by the Government for tracking national projects, and an e-tolling system designed in collaboration with ZINARA to modernise tollgate operations using RFID and NFC technologies.
“Our innovations, from smartphones to prescription lenses, show that science is not confined to laboratories but applied in factories, farms and clinics,” said the Vice Chancellor.
The university also celebrated its students’ international success.
To date, more than 25 000 graduates have been produced, including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs and educationists serving across Zimbabwe and beyond.
BUSE’s Enactus team claimed second place at the 2025 Enactus World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand, where it was competing against global heavyweights such as the United States, Canada, Germany and Brazil.
Central to BUSE’s rural industrialisation drive is the Zambezi Valley Masawu Plant in Muzarabani, currently 94 percent complete.
The plant will process masawu fruit sourced from local communities, creating jobs, boosting rural economies and supporting national food security.
Student representative Brita Gwezere hailed President Mnangagwa’s vision for innovation and empowerment.
She said the Government’s transformative Education 5.0 policy has empowered students through innovation, industrialisation and practical learning.
“This philosophy has transformed our higher education landscape, giving rise to innovation hubs across the country, including our own at BUSE. It is a testament to your belief in homegrown solutions and productive innovation.”
She expressed gratitude to the Government for the work-study programme, which supports more than 150 financially disadvantaged students and enables them to pursue their education with dignity.
“We are deeply appreciative of the support that ensures no student is left behind,” said Ms Gwezere. “As we join the growing alumni family of BUSE, let us carry forward the spirit of innovation and dedication to national development. We are created for greatness.”
Facial Paidamoyo Chitate, who was awarded President Mnangagwa’s Chancellor’s award of US$1000, was in disbelief that she won nine awards.
Ms Chitate, who was doing a degree in Natural Resources and Management, said she needed time to sit down and plan how to invest her prize money.
She looks forward to working with the Government in implementing policies that are in line with natural resources.
“I am happy to win a Presidential award. I want to work in the mining sector or collaborate with corporates engaging in aforestation drive to minimise the effects of climate change,” she said.
Among the graduates was Zimpapers staff member Patience Mhlobo, who was doing MSc Digital Marketing, and Mines and Mineral Development Deputy Minister Polite Kambamura.
