Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
China’s sustained support for Zimbabwe’s education and innovation sectors is pivotal in advancing human capital development, strengthening industrialisation, and accelerating the country’s progress towards Vision 2030, Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Frederick Shava has said.
Speaking at the China–Zimbabwe Friendship Scholarship Awards Ceremony and the 45th Anniversary Essay Contest celebrations in Harare yesterday, Dr Shava emphasised that China remains a crucial partner in Zimbabwe’s efforts to build an innovation-driven economy backed by a strong skills base.
He highlighted that the Friendship Scholarship programme and other collaborative initiatives reflect China’s commitment to modernising Zimbabwe’s higher education system and fully implementing Education 5.0, which prioritises research, innovation, and industrialisation.
“The China–Zimbabwe Friendship Scholarship stands as a tangible testament to this enduring relationship,” he stated.
“It demonstrates China’s commitment not only to human capital development in Zimbabwe but also to our shared vision of advancing national development through skills, knowledge, and innovation.”
Dr Shava noted that these scholarships open pathways for local students to pursue studies in strategically important fields, enhancing Zimbabwe’s capacity to build an innovation-driven and industrialised economy.
“The Second Republic has placed human capital development at the heart of our national transformation agenda. Through research, innovation, and industrialisation, Zimbabwe aims to create lasting solutions to its socio-economic challenges and accelerate progress towards Vision 2030,” he said.
“In this context, support from China aligns directly with our national priorities and complements our efforts to modernise, digitise, and industrialise every facet of our education system.”
He congratulated award recipients, describing them as future leaders whose skills will shape Zimbabwe’s economic and technological trajectory. Dr Shava also praised young Zimbabweans who participated in the 45th Anniversary Essay Contest, noting that their reflections highlighted a deep understanding of the historic ties and growing cooperation between the two nations.
He expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for its continued support in infrastructure development, agriculture, health, technology, and higher education, which are key drivers of Zimbabwe’s modernisation.
