Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Zimpapers Correspondent
HIGHER and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Frederick Shava has hailed the “unity of purpose” within the academic sector following a dominant performance at the 2026 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
Speaking at the official handover of the Silver Award Trophy in the Public Sector category at the ministry’s boardroom today, Dr Shava revealed that 57 out of 61 State institutions participated in this year’s premier trade showcase.
“I take this opportunity to sincerely commend the outstanding work showcased by our ministry at the 2026 edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, as evidenced by the prestigious Silver Award being handed over today,” he said.
“I am particularly gratified that 57 out of our 61 institutions participated in this year’s exhibition. This level of engagement reflects strong coordination, unity of purpose, and a shared commitment to advancing Education 5.0 and Vision 2030.”
He also described the high turnout as a clear reflection of the sector’s shared commitment to advancing the Government’s Education 5.0 philosophy and Vision 2030.
He issued a firm directive for the remaining four institutions that did not exhibit this year, emphasising that the ministry’s goal is 100 percent representation in future editions.
“Going forward, let us mobilise all our institutions to ensure full participation. Those that did not manage to exhibit this year must be encouraged and supported so that they are represented in the upcoming edition,” he said.
“The participation by our institutions yielded notable recognition, affirming our leadership in innovation, research commercialisation, and industrial prototyping.”
The 2026 ZITF served as a high-profile stage for the ministry’s focus on research commercialisation and industrial prototyping, with several institutions scooping top-tier accolades.
Notable winners included the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), which scooped the First Prize for Best Education and Training Exhibit, and the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), which earned second-place honors in Biotechnology Innovations, the Hackathon Innovators Forum, and for its overall exhibition stand.
Midlands State University also secured a third-place finish in the education category.
In line with the Second Republic’s rural industrialisation drive, Kushinga Phikelela Polytechnic was named the Best Rural Enterprises Exhibitor.
“These accolades are a clear affirmation that the Ministry is goal-oriented, innovative, and committed to excellence,” he said.
“Let us continue to aim higher, maintain the same spirit of unity, and keep driving our institutions toward greater achievements.”
