Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has challenged researchers to move beyond academic studies that gather dust on shelves and develop practical solutions to Zimbabwe’s industrial and socio-economic challenges.
The call was made at the Potraz and National University of Science and Technology (NUST) ICT Research Symposium, currently underway in Bulawayo, which is running under the theme, “Harnessing Emerging Digital Technologies for Industrial Transformation and Socioeconomic Advancement in Zimbabwe”.
Officially opening the symposium on Tuesday, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Tatenda Mavetera said emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), should be prioritised because of their potential to transform various sectors.
Mavetera, who was represented by her deputy, Dingumuzi Phuti, said researchers must translate technological advances into practical outcomes that improve people’s lives and strengthen the economy.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, our country is pursuing Vision 2030: the attainment of a prosperous and empowered upper middle income society. Research, innovation and the productive application of technology must contribute meaningfully to this aspiration.
“For this gathering, that means connecting knowledge to the needs of our economy and communities. A manufacturer should use locally developed technology to improve production. A farmer should receive timely information to support better decisions. A citizen should experience public services that are accessible and responsive,” said Minister Mavetera.
She said research findings should inform the country’s digital transformation agenda, with technology investments guided by evidence, national priorities and tangible benefits for users.
“Artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing and the Internet of Things offer opportunities to improve production, trade, learning and service delivery. Our technology choices must be guided by evidence, national priorities and demonstrable value to users.
“Research is therefore indispensable. It helps Government formulate informed policies, enables regulators to anticipate technological developments, and supports businesses in making sound investment decisions,” she said.
Minister Mavetera commended the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) for supporting ICT research and strengthening collaboration with universities.
“I commend Potraz for supporting ICT research through its research journal, symposiums and collaborative studies. These initiatives must continue to inform policy, strengthen regulation and support innovation. I also commend NUST for its research leadership and partnership with Potraz.
Universities must nurture talent and work closely with industry and communities to turn knowledge into useful applications.
“The sessions on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital health, smart agriculture and digital governance demonstrate the relevance of this symposium to national development. I am particularly encouraged by the prototype demonstrations and focus on research commercialisation.
Promising ideas require testing facilities, technical mentorship, intellectual property advice, financing and access to customers. We must strengthen the partnerships that help researchers navigate this journey,” said Minister Mavetera.
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