State to host Sadc Ministers’ Meeting

Yeukai Karengezeka

Herald Correspondent

Zimbabwe is set to host a joint meeting of SADC Ministers Responsible for Education and Training, Science, Technology, and Innovation from tomorrow up to Friday in Harare.

This meeting will bring together regional leaders, policymakers, and innovation stakeholders to deliberate on strategies aimed at fostering sustainable development through education and innovation.

In a statement, the Permanent Secretary for Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Professor Fanuel Tagwira, expressed the ministry’s pride in hosting the high-level gathering.

“Zimbabwe is honoured to welcome SADC ministers, senior officials and other stakeholders to Harare for this important meeting.

“It is an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation in higher education, science, and technology as we work towards inclusive growth and sustainable development,” he said.

The meeting will focus on key areas, including strengthening regional collaboration in higher education, science, and technology, reviewing progress on the implementation of SADC’s Education and Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) strategies, and showcasing regional innovation initiatives that align with Education 5.0 and industrialisation goals.

The event will also serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and policy alignment among member states to promote inclusive regional growth. Prof Tagwira also said stakeholders and partners will have the opportunity to explore innovative approaches to education and research, particularly within the framework of Education 5.0, which emphasises problem-solving and industrialisation.

Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration through education, science and innovation.

The country views this meeting as a critical step toward advancing SADC’s development agenda and aligning policies to achieve sustainable progress for the region.

This regional meeting is expected to bolster collaborative efforts within the region.

Regional cooperation in education and science has become increasingly important in driving socio-economic transformation.

Zimbabwe assumed the chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community  on August 17, 2024, taking over from Angola.