Story by Yolanda Moyo
Zimbabwe’s commitment to technological advancement took a significant step this Friday after the commissioning of the Professor Phineas Makhurane Technovation Centre at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) during the institution’s 30th Graduation Ceremony held in Bulawayo.
The centre which is the biggest in Southern Africa is set to house entrepreneurs and industry experts as Zimbabwe takes a leap forward in developing solutions that address the nation’s needs.
In an interview with ZBC News after commissioning the modern centre, President Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving.
“Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, and this Technovation Centre speaks to that and represents our unwavering commitment to harnessing the power of technology to create a better future for our nation. It will serve as a catalyst for innovation, fostering groundbreaking research and empowering our young minds to develop solutions that address our pressing needs as a nation,” he said.
President Mnangagwa conferred degrees to over three thousand students at the NUST’s 30th Graduation Ceremony, marking a seven percent increase in the number of graduands.
“As part of our vision of leading in human capital development for industrial and socio- economic transformation with a bias towards science, technology, engineering and mathematics based solutions, NUST has undertaken research and produced innovations to drive socio-economic development. During the year, our students produced innovations that received recognition national, regional and global. NUST received a total of 14 major national, regional and global awards.
“To leverage our mineral resource endowment to drive economic growth, NUST is involved in research and innovation within the mining sector. During the year the university produced innovations that seek to reduce import substitution, enhance value-addition, promote environmentally-friend mining practices and strengthen safety of mine workers. NUST is also engaged in research and innovation in the new mineral, lithium,” he added.
The operationalisation of the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Ekusileni Hospital, as a specialist research and teaching hospital is ongoing, with the equipping of phase 1 expected to be completed next year as explained by Professor Mqhele Dlodlo, NUST Vice Chancellor.
The operationalisation of the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Ekusileni Hospital, as a specialist research and teaching hospital is ongoing. The operationalisation is being implemented in phases. Equipping of the Phase 1 units – gynaecology, paediatrics and post-natal care – is expected to be completed in 2025. Specialists have been identified and are ready to start offering services, as soon as specialist equipment is installed,” he highlighted.
Graduands who include ZBC’s engineer Frank Sithole expressed their excitement and readiness to contribute to Zimbabwe’s technological landscape.
“We are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address the challenges of the 21st century and drive technological advancements that will benefit our nation. The world is becoming increasingly digital, and the knowledge and skills I’ve gained at NUST have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to this technological revolution,” said Sithole.
Meanwhile, in a gesture of appreciation for the university’s contribution to national development, President Mnangagwa was presented with a Brahman pedigree bull by NUST authorities.
This traditional symbol of wealth and prosperity signifies the university’s gratitude for government’s support and commitment to nurturing future leaders.
In line with the Heritage-based Education 5.0 model, NUST is set to introduce a total of 24 degree programmes as it seeks to make a positive impact on Zimbabwe’s economy and society.
