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The course was geared to enhance their effectiveness in teaching arts and the students were accompanied by three of their lecturers.
Mutare Teachers College principal lecturer Lloyd Katsi was head of delegation.
In April, representatives from Mutare Teachers College attended this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) and were impressed by exhibitions Mzilikazi Arts and Craft Centre displayed at the annual business showcase.
They then decided to have an exchange programme for students at the tertiary institution in the final year of their study.
Students were taught the basics of pottery, ceramic sculpture, fine art, commercial art and wood and stone sculpture.
Head of delegation Katsi said the trip was an eye-opener and they learnt a lot.
He said the exchange programme gave the students the much-needed practical expertise that they needed.
“In Mutare, we learn the practical part of art and to come here really benefited us as we learnt what was lacking from our curriculum. Mzilikazi Arts and Craft Centre is the best in the country and we commend the college authorities for doing a great job here,” said Katsi.
He said the visit was not their last, as they would return with another group of students next year.
“We want this programme to benefit final year students and we shall come next year with another group of final year students. The knowledge they gained will be helpful and they will impart what they learnt to their students when they get employed after graduating,” said Katsi.
The general manager for Bulawayo City Council-run City of Kings Business Ventures, Moses Munthali, said such exchange programmes were beneficial for both the city and its artists.
He said they would continue to support the arts sector by affording them the chance to exhibit their artifacts.
“This was a result of the exhibitions that were at the ZITF. The exhibitions were given the exposure that they needed. That is why we want these exchange programmes. They are very important to expose the artists and Bulawayo as a cultural hub,” said Munthali.
He, however, challenged local teachers’ colleges to come and be taught art disciplines so that they benefit from the arts and craft school.
“A teacher institution from Mutare has seen the importance of this arts school and they decided to come and learn. I challenge teachers colleges in our city to emulate them and benefit from the facilities we have,” said Munthali.
During the ceremony, the best female student was Linda Mukwangwariva and her male counterpart was Ebbie Machiya.
Online Reporter