Story by John Nhandara
THE country is forging ahead with its digital transformation journey, bridging the gap between academia and industry through innovation hubs.
The latest is the TelOne Centre for Learning Innovation Hub, launched in Harare this Tuesday, a facility which is a physical manifestation of government’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 Model.
The innovation hub is already functional.
“I came up with a software called Bako emergency system, which connects citizens who are distressed or in danger to the nearest emergency responders. It minimises response time,” a student, Munashe Kamuche said.
“I have developed an online application called Med Connect, which brings health services to the people through connecting online with doctors without actually visiting the clinic. You even get your prescription online. It is a smart digital system,” another student, Ropafadzo Chamboko noted
The establishment of the innovation hubs speaks to government’s thrust to bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial application.
“The innovation hub will allow our students to come up with their innovations and prototypes. It is a critical incubator for student and industry-led projects, particularly our students who are leveraging Information and Communication Technology to solve national challenges,” TelOne Centre for Learning’s Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Lawrence Nkala noted.
“We are happy that higher learning institutions and training centres are forging ahead with government’s focus of embracing ICT tools, innovating and producing graduates who are innovative and ready to penetrate the market,” the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera said.
The institution also held its 10th graduation ceremony that saw over 600 students completing their studies in different disciplines.
“I am happy to have made it and am hoping to contribute the knowledge I have gained to the growth of the economy,” a graduate said.
“I have already come up with innovations which I want to showcase to the industry. It is the dawn of a new era after having graduated,” another echoed.
The TelOne Centre for Learning has already aligned its curriculum with the broader national scope of the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 Model, which promotes innovation and industrialisation.
