Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
MIDLANDS State University (MSU) has unveiled a range of innovative products, including washable water-based paints, glow-in-the-dark coatings and nail polish, as part of its drive to lead in research, development and industrialisation under the Education 5.0 framework.
Education 5.0, adopted in 2020, marks a shift in the country’s higher education approach, focusing on five pillars: teaching, research, community service, innovation and industrialisation. The model aims to produce graduates capable of driving industrial growth and addressing real-world challenges.
Since the policy’s launch, universities have become hubs of innovation, establishing industrial parks and commercialising student-led projects. At MSU, President Mnangagwa commissioned the Industrial Park in 2020, and it has since grown into a centre for community-focused solutions. To ensure products reach the market, the university has opened a retail outlet in
Gweru’s central business district.
Among the latest developments is Paz Paints, a start-up incubated at the MSU Innovation Hub, which is producing washable water-based paints and planning to expand into oil paints.
Resident innovator Miss Nancy Gadzani said the water-based paint is designed for both interior and exterior use on walls and ceilings.
“The first product line is the washable water-based paint. It’s not yet registered, but we are working on it. Its innovator is Panashe Zimondi, an innovator here at the MSU Innovation Hub,” she said.
Also in production is a glow-in-the-dark paint developed by Sukarav Tech Paints, another MSU-incubated company. The coating absorbs light during the day or from ambient sources and emits a glow for eight to 12 hours in darkness.
“During the day, the paints display subtle colours, but at night they transform into a magical glow,” explained Miss Gadzani.
In addition to wall paints, the company is producing glow-in-the-dark gel nail polish, which is salon-grade, long-lasting and safe for the skin.
“It’s ideal for fashion shoots, events, festivals, weddings or for anyone wanting a bold look,” said Miss Gadzani
Patent applications for these products are underway with MSU’s assistance. Another innovator, Miss Wendy Murambi, said they have developed a shampoo made from organic materials, including Zumbani, along with natural soaps and bath salts.
“We have developed the shampoo and some washing products such as soap, salts, using organic materials. The products have some healing effects,” she said
MSU says these initiatives embody the spirit of Education 5.0, translating academic knowledge into tangible solutions that improve lives, create jobs and strengthen Zimbabwe’s innovation ecosystem.
