Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
CHINHOYI University of Technology (CUT) will host an international conference next week which will bring together academics, industry leaders, policymakers and innovators.
The conference seeks to explore the role of technology in driving business, industrialisation and rural development.
Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Professor Tongai Mwedzi, who is also the Executive Dean of the School of Wildlife, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, said the conference would focus on how technology can transform various sectors of the economy.
“Our theme is ‘The Technology-Enterprise Nexus: Partnering for Intervention, Rural Innovation and Impact’,’” said Prof Mwedzi.
“We are embracing the Education 5.0 mantra. The whole idea is moving from the traditional pillars of teaching, research and community service to a model that emphasises industrialisation and innovation.We do not need technology for the sake of technology. We need technology that translates into business opportunities and industrialisation.
“That is why we are calling it the ‘Technology-Enterprise Nexus’. CUT has always been about technology, innovation and wealth creation.
“Our mission speaks of producing innovative graduates who create knowledge, enhance entrepreneurship and provide community service. “That is what we have always stood for.”Prof Mwedzi said this year’s conference is particularly significant as it coincides with the university’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. “The conference marks 25 years of Chinhoyi University’s existence. It is our Silver Jubilee and there is no better way to celebrate than by reflecting on who we are and what we stand for.
“This conference is very important to us as we celebrate 25 years since receiving our charter.” The keynote speakers include Professor Arthur Mutambara, Dr Comfort Manyame, Dr Mutarigwi of Kenya and Engineer Kanukamwe from the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT).Prof Mwedzi said the second day of the conference will feature the official opening ceremony.
“We have invited the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Honourable Ambassador Frederick Shava, to officially open the conference,” he said.
The final day will focus on exhibitions showcasing technological innovations and research, although exhibitors will be allowed to display their products and innovations throughout the conference. “We are not restricting exhibitions to the final day. Exhibitors will be free to showcase their work throughout the conference. “This is an important event that brings together academics, industry and the wider community,” he said.Prof Mwedzi acknowledged the support of several corporate partners and sponsors for the event.“You will notice that one of our platinum lead sponsors is the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service. “We also have support from Capital Foods, K2, BioSP, Dairibord and several other partners. Their support will help us celebrate our 25-year journey while reflecting on our achievements and advancing the agenda of Chinhoyi University of Technology,” he said.
Organisers expect about 500 delegates to attend the conference, with attendance projected to remain within that target.
So far, the organising committee has received a significant number of abstracts from several universities, including HIT, Lupane State University, Bindura University of Science Education, NUST, WAST, Great Zimbabwe University (GZU), and Africa University (AU). The conference will also host delegates from UKZN in South Africa, highlighting its growing regional appeal.
