Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
MIDLANDS State University (MSU) has made substantial contributions to the country’s national development trajectory, closely aligning with Education 5.0 and Vision 2030.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister, Dr Fredrick Shava, made these remarks following a recent tour of the MSU main campus in Gweru, to appreciate the contributions the institution is making towards the country’s development.
He emphasised that higher and tertiary education institutions must be the catalysts for national progress, focusing on knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development.
Dr Shava was taken through a virtual tour of MSU’s expansive footprint across Zimbabwe, followed by an in-depth exploration of the university’s ground-breaking projects.
These included community-based initiatives in Chirumhanzu, the Modified Coal Plant, the MSU Radio Station in Zvishavane, the Industrial Park, the National Pathology Research and Diagnostic Centre, the Innovation Hub, the MSU Cannabis Centre and the ED Mnangagwa School of Law Campus in Kwekwe.
At the Innovation Hub, Dr Shava was captivated by a vibrant ecosystem of creativity, where ideas are transformed into tangible goods and services.
“The developments I witnessed during my time here have left an indelible mark, reinforcing my conviction that MSU is a pivotal contributor to national development,” he said.
Dr Shava reiterated that the developments on the ground leave an indelible mark, reinforcing the Government’s belief that MSU is a key player in national development.
“MSU is showcasing a significant impact on national development and its alignment with Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 agenda, which aims to position higher and tertiary institutions as drivers of national progress through knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.
The minister also expressed his admiration for MSU’s ground-breaking projects, including community-based initiatives and praised the university’s commitment to Education 5.0, highlighting its focus on research, innovation, industrialisation and community engagement.
“Government commends MSU’s dedication to rural industrialisation through projects such as the ecotourism initiative in Chirumhanzu, which is a shining example,” said Dr Shava.
MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor Victor Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa, commended the Government for its unwavering financial support to the institution over the years.
“The success of MSU is largely due to the Government’s steadfast backing, which has enabled the university to spearhead high-impact research and drive community transformation,” he said. Prof Muzvidziwa highlighted MSU’s remarkable achievements, including its 18th position in the 2024 Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings by the Times Higher Education Index.
“This recognition underscores MSU’s growing influence as a hub of academic excellence and innovation. As the ‘university for tomorrow’, MSU remains steadfast in its mission to drive national development and transform lives,” he said.
