UAE launches BIG institute academy in Bulawayo

The BIG Institute from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in partnership with the Women Inspired Academy, a local organisation, has launched the first BIG institute in Southern Africa.

The academy was launched at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s educational landscape.

Set to be constructed in Parklands, Bulawayo, the academy aims to empower students through a diverse array of academic programmes, including Bachelor’s degrees and diplomas and Masters Programmes.

Some of the programmes will also be offered online, ensuring accessibility for a wider range of students.

In the interim, students will be utilising the Women Inspired Pavilion at the ZIEC, providing them with a conducive learning environment during the construction of the new campus.

BIG Institute Vice President, Mr Som Baksi, said they decided to set up an academy in Zimbabwe to cut costs for Zimbabwean students who enrol at their institution.

“We have observed that every year we have students from Zimbabwe in the three campuses we have in the UAE. We realised that since we have these few, why don’t we increase our reach and cater for those who may not be able to afford the education in UAE hence the reason we are here,” he said.

“Our institution is built on the principles of quality, easy accessibility, affordability, employability, and student mobility and our launch here in Zimbabwe fulfils all those principles.”

The academy will also offer unique international opportunities, allowing students to study abroad in either France or the UAE for one year. The global exposure is designed to enrich the academic experience and broaden career prospects for students.

Dr Nothando Moyo, the founder of the Women Inspired Academy, highlighted the collaborative spirit that made this vision possible.

“This initiative would not have been achievable without the open-door policy of our partners and leaders, including the UAE ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dr Jassim Mohamed Al Qasemi, who promptly headed to our call by responding to us within an hour of making an enquiry,” she said.

“To Umama, the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, her door is always literally open and we are grateful for that. This vision would not have been successful had it not been for everyone who supported it.”

Bulawayo Councillor for Ward 3, Clr Mxolisi Mahlangu, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “I am happy that such a prestigious institution is going to be built in my constituency.

“This is a testament to our commitment to enhancing education in our community.”

In a speech read on his behalf by Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo, Bulawayo Mayor, Clr David Coltart, voiced his pride in the initiative, saying it will break the cycle of poverty.

“The establishment of this study centre is not merely the opening of a new building, it is the creation of a transformative space where knowledge will flourish, ideas will be exchanged and futures will be shaped,” he said.

“Here, young minds will be inspired to think critically, innovate and lead with confidence. The skills and knowledge imparted in this centre will resonate far beyond its walls, impacting families, communities and ultimately, our nation as we embark on this journey together, let us remember that education is the foundation of equality.

“It empowers individuals, breaks the cycle of poverty and fosters resilience. By investing in education, we are investing in a brighter, more equitable future for all.”
The colourful launch was attended by councillors, Chief Dakamela, UAE Ambassador to Zimbabwe Dr Jassim Mohamed Al Qasemi, the business community and potential students.

The launch of the Women Inspired Academy is expected to have a profound impact on the educational landscape of Bulawayo and Southern Africa, providing students with the tools and opportunities they need, to succeed in a globalised world.