Moffat Mungazi
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
AFRICA University recently hosted a dynamic career fair that brought together academia and students eager to explore new professional opportunities.
The highlight of the event was a series of presentations by luminaries such as Professor Rudo Makunike-Mutasa, Professor Obert Jiri, Reverend Professor Peter Mageto, Commissioner Dr Elizabeth Rutsate and Old Mutual Group chief executive officer, Mr Samuel Matsekete.
Mr Matsekete’s presentation, titled: “Financial Leadership in a Technologically Advanced Economy: Navigating Change and Driving Business Sustainability,” sparked thought-provoking discussions among delegates.
Mr Matsekete said the country is on verge of the Fifth Industrial Revolution, where rapid technological advancements are transforming the way people live and conduct business.
Despite the changes, he said, fundamental principles of finance remain unchanged, the focus being maximising returns while minimising risks.
“It is not just about accumulating wealth; it is about managing resources effectively to achieve peace of mind and long-term stability,” he said, with his remarks resonating with students, most of whom were eager to understand the evolving nature of financial leadership in the fast-paced world.
“Financial leadership today goes beyond managing assets. It is about harnessing technology to create innovative solutions that meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. As we move forward, the synergy between technology and humanity is critical. Solutions must be designed with the human experience in mind to ensure that financial services remain relevant and accessible in an increasingly digital landscape,” he said.
Mr Matsekete said Old Mutual remains committed to empowering young professionals and fostering innovation within the economy through initiatives like the Eight2Five Innovation Hub — a corporate incubation hub dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, start-ups, and creatives by providing a collaborative co-working space, mentorship, and valuable networking opportunities.
By participating in events like the Africa University Career Fair, Old Mutual aims to inspire Zimbabwean youth to pursue careers that not only advance their personal ambitions, but also contribute to the broader community and economy, while also upholding the right values.
Mr Matsekete underscored the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“The demand for diverse expertise is growing, with professionals from various backgrounds playing an essential role in enhancing problem-solving and driving innovation within the financial services sector. Today’s financial experts must be tech-savvy and data-driven to make informed decisions that drive business success,” he said, adding that financial services sector needs a broader range of skills to adapt faster and connect effectively with fast evolving needs and demographics of society.
Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity, with many noting that the insights shared during his lecture would shape their future career choices.
The AU Career Fair was a resounding success, not only for its insightful presentations, but also for its ability to inspire students to think critically about their future roles in a rapidly evolving world.
With the right combination of technological expertise, financial leadership, and a commitment to sustainability, the students are well-positioned to become tomorrow’s leaders.
Online Reporter