Story by Bruce Chahwanda
MORE than 150 graduands were capped by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences’ (MSUAS) 3rd graduation ceremony in Mutare this Thursday.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is also the Chancellor of the University.
The graduation theme: “Advancing Sustainable Production, Industrialisation and Modernisation through Research and Innovation”, aligns with the country’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe which fosters an environment where research, innovation and development thrive.
62 of the 153 graduates are female while 91 are male, with eight of them graduating with first class degrees.
Gamuchirai Chigariro was the best female graduating student for the Bachelor of Metallurgy Honours Degree with 34 distinctions, while Tinashe Carl Nhapi has 33 distinctions in the Bachelor of Engineering in Mining and Mineral Processing Honours Degree.
Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences Vice Chancellor Professor Albert Chawanda said the future belongs to those who can harness the power of knowledge for sustainable development.
He said, “In this era of rapid technological advancement and increasing global challenges, research and innovation are the cornerstones of sustainable development. As a university of applied sciences, we recognise that the future belongs to those who can harness the power of knowledge to drive sustainable growth. Today’s graduands are not just the products of academic rigor; they are the pioneers of the future, equipped to lead Zimbabwe and the region in sustainable production and industrialisation. Your Excellency, I have no doubt in my mind that through their education, these graduands are more than prepared to transform ideas into solutions, using research and innovation to tackle pressing issues bedeviling our dear country.”
Professor Chawanda said the establishment of a vibrant Innovation and Agro-Industrial Park will transform the university into a citadel of research.
“This initiative represents a significant step towards fostering innovation, technological advancement, and sustainable industrial growth, and we are deeply grateful for your leadership and vision in making this project a reality. We look forward to seeing its positive impact on our academic community, as well as the wider economy.
“I am happy to report that: The perimeter of the Agro Park is now fenced, including 1000 Ha for a Game Park, 10 km of ZESA 11 KVA & 33 KVA power lines have been rerouted to allow full utilisation of the 210 Ha under centre pivots irrigation, The geospatial planning for the Agro Park was done by the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) to provide a comprehensive spatial layout to support infrastructure planning and future developments. The next phase shall involve establishing an Agro-Processing and Value addition Plant, as well as establishing the Makoni Community Out-growers Scheme,” he said.
The institution has already secured a research grant of US$55 800 from the Research Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority.
The university specialises in applied sciences, medical and health, mineral, forestry and agricultural sciences as well as tourism and hospitality.
