Story by Mercy Bofu
THE Chancellor of Great Zimbabwe University, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has capped more than 4 000 graduands at the institution’s 17th graduation ceremony in Masvingo this Friday.
Of the 4 899 graduates, 64% were women confirming the drive to empower women is bearing fruit.
Over 3 700 were presented with undergraduate degrees, 1 184 postgraduate degrees and six graduated with Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Rungano Zvobgo highlighted several developments at the institution enabled by the Education 5.0 model which include the registration of nine trademarks with the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), agro-innovations and infrastructure development projects.
“This year, we made significant progress in promoting the natural sciences to address gaps identified in the National Skills Audit of 2018. The Simon Mazorodze School of Medical and Health Sciences enrolled its first cohort of students. We also introduced new programmes to narrow the gap in agriculture, engineering, science and technology,” said Professor Zvobgo.
Professor Zvobgo however expressed concern over drug and substance abuse saying it has become a menace among students although the university is coming up with various measures to address the issue.
“This year, we lost some of our staff and students and what is more heart-wrenching was the loss of some students due to suspected drug and substance abuse complications,” he said.
The graduates are looking forward to a bright future as they chart a new course.
“We are excited today that we completed our studies. As an individual I’m looking forward to contributing significantly towards the growth of our country in the agriculture sector,” said a graduate.
“Today, I am saying to fellow graduates, let us go and be torch-bearers in our communities. The knowledge we have benefited will go a long way in ensuring community development,” said another graduate.
Great Zimbabwe University is among tertiary institutions contributing to national development through projects such as the Great Zimbabwe University Community Radio and the Chivi Centre for Dryland Agriculture.
