Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
MIDLANDS State University (MSU) is leading the way in developing sustainable strategies to tackle global challenges through education and innovation, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Grace Mugumbate.
Zimbabwe is relying on AI-driven innovations to propel its economy towards industrialisation and attain upper-middle-income status by 2030.
A recent Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) symposium held at MSU in Gweru brought together participants from Russia, the United States, South Africa, and local innovators to explore collaborative opportunities in robotics, AI and other advanced technologies.
Speaking at the symposium, Professor Mugumbate reaffirmed the university’s commitment to national development through education, innovation and practical action.
“We aim to develop sustainable strategies in robotics for the future. We are providing a platform for our stakeholders to showcase cutting-edge solutions to the education system. We aim to develop meaningful partnerships for strategic growth. We aim to cement the Education 5.0 model. We believe that education empowers the nation. Our Stem strategy is designed to address pressing global challenges,” she said.
The symposium was held under the theme “Pioneering a Digital Future through Education and Innovation.”
Professor Mugumbate noted that the high-level event convened educators, policymakers, industry leaders and global experts to advance Stem education and promote inclusive national development.
“Our symposium was designed to drive meaningful changes in our education system, and we had several key objectives that guided our discussions and outcomes. We aim to develop sustainable strategies for integrating coding, robotics, and digital skills into curricula, recognising the critical role these skills will play in shaping the future workforce,” she said.
To realise this vision, MSU will facilitate knowledge exchange with international experts, drawing on their insights and expertise to inform its approach.
“We convened to celebrate innovation through exhibitions, providing a dynamic platform for our stakeholders to showcase their skills, creativity, and cutting-edge solutions. Additionally, we intentionally engaged education officials as active participants, ensuring our discussions were grounded in the real-world needs and priorities of our education system,” she said.
Professor Mugumbate emphasised that through collaborative efforts, MSU seeks to build meaningful partnerships with both local and international stakeholders, recognising their vital role in driving innovation, economic growth and societal progress.
“Our vision transcends the conventional classroom, driven by a steadfast commitment to inclusive education. We firmly believe that quality education is a fundamental right, accessible to all regardless of background or circumstance,” she said.
MSU is forging strategic partnerships with Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, the State University of New York, and technical colleges.
“Together, we aim to introduce coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence programmes within correctional facilities, providing a second chance for rehabilitation, skill-building, and personal growth,” she said.
Professor Mugumbate described education as a powerful catalyst for transformation and redemption, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to Education 5.0, which advocates for an inclusive, equitable and high-quality education system.
Recognising education as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development, she highlighted the university’s dedication to making quality education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status.
“We believe education should empower, not privilege. Our Stem strategy promotes inclusive national development by equipping students with 21st-century skills.
“We acknowledge the critical role Stem education plays in addressing pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality and climate change. Moving forward, we prioritise inclusive education, recognising every individual’s right to education, regardless of abilities, disabilities, or circumstances,” said Professor Mugumbate.
In pursuit of social innovation, MSU will design and procure affordable coding and robotics equipment for distribution to schools, colleges, and universities.
She noted that this initiative promotes digital literacy, equal access to quality education, and helps bridge the digital divide. Disadvantaged schools will receive equipment donations, empowering marginalised communities.
“Building on the momentum of the symposium, we will immediately offer a six-day intensive training programme for lecturers and teachers nationwide. This specialised training is carefully designed to enhance the coding, robotics and artificial intelligence (CRAI) capacity of educators, aligning with Education 5.0 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4),” said Professor Mugumbate.
She said that by adopting advanced CRAI methodologies, MSU will promote inclusive education, equity, and quality learning outcomes — ultimately bridging the digital divide, reaching marginalised communities, and empowering students to thrive in the 21st century.
MSU has partnered with Nelson Mandela University and Worcester Institute of Technology to integrate cutting-edge tools across Zimbabwe’s national curriculum, including schools, teacher training colleges, and correctional education institutions.
“We are thrilled to have forged strategic partnerships with renowned global institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Clark University, the University of South Africa, the State University of New York and institutions from Russia. Together, we are accelerating Stem education and innovation, driving transformative impact,” said Professor Mugumbate.
