Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau
THE Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa Law School in Kwekwe, which is now 75 percent complete, is set to host Midlands State University’s (MSU) first-ever graduation ceremony outside Gweru in September.
Construction activity at the site is in full swing, with contractors busy installing windows and doors and applying final touches to the multi-purpose building.
The project represents a major milestone not only for MSU but for the Kwekwe community and the country at large, dovetailing with the goals of Vision 2030.
Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube, accompanied by MSU Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Industrialisation, Professor Grace Mugumbate, recently toured the facility to assess progress.
The new law school, situated on a 220-hectare site along the old Gokwe Road, is expected to draw students from across the country and beyond. With a capacity to accommodate 600 students, the institution is set to make a lasting impact on the country’s legal and academic landscape.
In an interview, Prof Mugumbate expressed confidence that the school will be ready to host the university’s graduation ceremony on 5 September this year.
“The construction is progressing well, with work underway on the windows, roof and doors.
“We are hoping to complete everything we aim to achieve by the end of July or mid-August, which will put us in a good position for the graduation ceremony on 5 September,” said Prof Mugumbate.
She commended the Government for availing the necessary resources and equipment that have accelerated the construction process.
However, she noted that some critical infrastructure is still pending.
“There are some aspects that still require attention, including the road, water and sewer reticulation and furnishing of the building.
“We plan to start working on the road this coming week and will collaborate with Government departments to meet our targets,” said Prof Mugumbate.
She also revealed that MSU has a long-term master plan for accommodation, which includes housing for students, staff and other university personnel.
Addressing academics and Government officials after the tour, Minister Ncube said the institution is a flagship project under President Mnangagwa’s Education 5.0 model, which promotes innovation, industrialisation and infrastructure development in higher learning institutions.
“The ED Mnangagwa Law School is a modern facility, which is 75 percent complete and is targeted for completion by the end of August 2025, in time to host the September 2025 Midlands State University Graduation Ceremony as well as subsequent commissioning by President Mnangagwa,” he said.
Minister Ncube said the facility includes an E-Library and a Moot Court, offering students valuable exposure to practical legal training, research, advocacy and court simulations.
He urged the Kwekwe City Council to prioritise the completion of road works and called on all other departments to expedite related services such as water, sewer and electricity infrastructure.
Minister Ncube said these off-site components are crucial in bringing the project to completion and ensuring the law school functions as intended.
