Story by Tichaona Kurewa
Lupane State University is driving poultry productivity through its avian artificial insemination programme, demonstrating the practical impact of the Education 5.0 model while supporting the Presidential Poultry Scheme.
The initiative targets productivity challenges associated with indigenous chickens, which, despite their adaptability, are often limited by low output and poor reproductive performance.
Under Education 5.0, the university has introduced avian artificial insemination, a controlled breeding technique designed to improve production and sustainability in the poultry sector.
“Before this project, we did not have the infrastructure you now see. This innovation has driven significant development. We have scaled up from producing fewer than 50 fertilised eggs per month to over 2 190. These eggs are distributed to local farmers, and we have partnered with the Women’s League, which hatches the eggs and integrates the chicks into the Presidential Poultry Scheme. So far, we have contributed over 1 500 fertilised eggs, supporting the empowerment of women and youth,” said Innovation Lead at the LSU Agricultural Hub, Ms Jessica Pullen.
Working in partnership with the ZANU PF Women’s League, the programme reflects the community engagement pillar of Education 5.0, linking innovation to grassroots development.
“We purchase fertilised eggs in bulk from Lupane State University for the Women’s League. We hatch them and sell the chicks at US$1 each, enabling women to generate income and sustain their livelihoods. These eggs have been very beneficial to us,” said Matabeleland North provincial representative Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu.
Launched in 2020, the programme has evolved from a small academic initiative into a production and empowerment hub, illustrating how universities can extend beyond teaching and research to deliver practical community solutions.
