Story by Nyasha Makota
OVER 20 postgraduate students from the University of Zimbabwe are currently undertaking advanced studies in Rome, Italy, under the Water-Energy-Food Nexus to Africa (WAGON2Africa) programme, in a development reflecting growing academic cooperation between Zimbabwe and Europe.
The WAGON2Africa initiative is an Italian-led programme aimed at strengthening collaboration between African and Italian universities, while building research capacity and skills in areas central to sustainable development, including water security, energy systems and food production.
Officials say the participation of Zimbabwean students highlights the deepening of international academic partnerships under the country’s engagement and re-engagement policy, with universities increasingly benefiting from global research networks.
Dr Tichaona Maume, a member of the Zimbabwean delegation, described the programme as an important opportunity for skills transfer and international collaboration.
“This opportunity in Italy is a testament to the opening of new doors for Zimbabweans. Engaging with European institutions on critical issues allows us to contribute to global dialogues and bring that expertise back to support national development. It reflects growing international confidence in our country’s trajectory,” he said.
Another student, Netsai Mephulangogaja, said the programme signals increasing recognition of Zimbabwean institutions on the global stage.
“Being accepted into this prestigious project shows that Zimbabwe and its institutions are being recognised as serious partners in addressing global challenges. We are here as ambassadors of a re-engaging Zimbabwe, ready to collaborate,” said Mephulangogaja.
Leader of the Zimbabwean delegation and University of Zimbabwe Business School Director, Professor Albert Makochekanwa, said the academic exchange is a direct outcome of strengthened international relations.
“The WAGON2Africa project is a flagship of renewed international cooperation. It indicates that Zimbabwe is actively engaging with global centres of excellence. Such exchanges promote mutually beneficial partnerships and contribute to the country’s human capital development,” said he indicated.
The participation of Zimbabwean students in Italian universities is being seen as a marker of progress under the country’s engagement and re-engagement policy, helping to build professional networks and expertise that can support national development.
