Story by Fungai Jachi
BINDURA University of Science Education (BUSE) is set to commence full-scale production of corrective lenses by the end of the month at its state-of-the-art optometry lens production laboratory, which boasts the capacity to manufacture 1 200 pairs of lenses within 24 hours.
The facility, the first of its kind in Zimbabwe, not only houses an optometry school and clinic but also includes a corrective lens manufacturing plant, enabling patients to receive their prescription lenses within an hour of diagnosis.
This development underscores the transformation of the education sector under the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, which promotes innovation and industrialisation within tertiary institutions to address national challenges.
Vice Chancellor Professor Eddie Mwenje expressed optimism about the positive impact the facility will have on the country’s eye care services.
“Full-scale production is going to start by the end of this month and we are anticipating that it will ease the challenges in the eyecare sector. All eyecare services will be under one roof and this will ease the burden on patients. The facility will serve not only the local community but also the country because there is no other facility that can produce corrective lenses at such a pace. It will improve efficiency for patients seeking eye care services,” Professor Mwenje said.
He also highlighted that the National Goat Genetic Improvement Centre is making progress in improving goat breeds.
“We now have about five foreign breeds that we have incorporated into the genetics improvement program. We are making progress because now we will be including locals whom we will be giving crossbreeds so that their herds will be improved,” he added.
Higher and Tertiary Education Innovation Science and Technology Development Minister Ambassador Frederick Shava, who toured the University’s projects this Wednesday, was impressed with the progress being made, encouraging the institution to commercialise its products.
“We expect this university to go on a full commercialisation drive to get products and services to market reality. It is important to note also that the university should fully implement the innovation and industrialisation ordinances by rewarding innovators and inventors along the way. In addition, we must conduct risk profiling for the industrial parks and possible mitigatory strategies.
“The university is also encouraged to forge partnerships with sister institutions and any other institutions and benefit from the synergies developed thereon,” Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development, Ambassador Frederick Shava said.
Apart from the optometry centre, BUSE also has a budding Industrial Park which houses various projects that include a software development hub, a garment factory as well as a gold analytical centre which offers analytical services to the mining community.
The institution also has various products being produced at the institution’s innovation hub which includes a wide range of innovative products from the Masawu fruit such as jam, juices and cosmetics.
