Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
IT was all smiles at the 23rd edition of the Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) graduation ceremony as 2394 students were capped by the institution’s Chancellor, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Among the graduates were eight who studied for Doctorate degrees, 422 masters’ graduates, 28 with postgraduate diplomas and 1667 who attained undergraduate degrees.
BUSE’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eddie Mwenje chronicled the university’s developmental strides.
“The university has fully embraced AI as demonstrated by its appointment of the first Professor of AI in the country. The university continues to pursue innovation and has established partnerships for cell phone and computer tablet assembly. We also managed to mainstream AI in our university functions and research. In a world where AI is revolutionising every industry and redefining how we live and work, BUSE has taken bold strides to ensure Zimbabwe will not be left behind in this area,” he said.
ZBC News caught up with elated graduates, those who received the Chancellor’s Cash Award for being the best students.
“I feel ecstatic and overwhelmed because this is one of those rare moments. It’s certainly not the end but the beginning of a long journey to come as I hope to keep improving,” said a graduate.
Another added, “I’m delighted to graduate today after complimenting my biotechnology degree. I received four prices and a cash price of US$2 000. I was surprised when the amount was doubled by the President at the podium.”
BUSE is constructing a cell phone, tablet and laptop manufacturing factory and production is expected to commence by year-end.
The university also introduced programmes in petroleum engineering, milling engineering, mining and mechanical engineering in response to pressing demands.
The graduates rolled out today are expected to play a pivotal role in national development with the government emphasising innovation and industrialisation.
