Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in a transformative initiative that is redefining the role of sport within Zimbabwe’s higher education institutions.

At the core of this collaboration is the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers Programme — and its impact is already being felt across campus.
Through this initiative, MSUAS has welcomed two expert volunteer coaches from Japan: Haruna Yamasaki, who is coaching basketball, and Azusa Matsumoto, who is leading volleyball.
University Registrar Dr Kudzayiishe Mudzingwa commended JICA’s strategic deployment of volunteer coaches, describing it as a game-changer for disciplines such as basketball and volleyball — areas that have long needed structured development.

“I wish to express my gratitude to JICA for partnering with MSUAS through the Government of Zimbabwe. This has enabled the deployment of resource persons who are helping us develop skills in basketball and volleyball,” said Dr Mudzingwa.

His remarks reflect more than appreciation — they signal a deepening commitment to sport as an integral part of student development at MSUAS.
The partnership aligns seamlessly with the university’s vision of integrating specialised skills training into its academic framework, ultimately empowering students to thrive both in the lecture room and on the field.

“This partnership perfectly complements our commitment to developing well-rounded students — those who excel not only academically but also in specialised skills that enhance their personal and professional growth,” he added.
That vision is already resonating across the university. Students who were previously uncertain about their athletic prospects now train with renewed passion and purpose.
MSUAS has made its intentions clear: the goal is not merely to dominate local leagues but to nurture talent that can serve the nation at international fora.
“We hope that those acquiring these specialised sports skills will elevate MSUAS in various competitions. Ultimately, we aim to contribute to Zimbabwe’s efforts in building teams for the Olympic Games, African Games, and other international platforms,” Dr Mudzingwa noted, drawing a direct connection between grassroots development and global achievement.
JICA Representative in Zimbabwe, Mr Shinya Furuta commended the university for its bold and forward-thinking approach to sports development.
“We are pleased to work closely with institutions like MSUAS, where sport is increasingly being recognised as a powerful platform for life skills, discipline and international cooperation,” he said.

Mr Furuta emphasised that sport, as a tool for development, aligns with JICA’s broader mission to promote mutual understanding and strengthen human connections between nations.
MSUAS Director of Sport, Mr Timothy Ndhlera, has already witnessed a shift on the ground. What was once routine training evolved into sessions charged with energy and ambition.
“Their commitment and expertise are undeniable,” he said of the Japanese volunteer coaches. “Soon, we will become a formidable force in basketball and volleyball, establishing ourselves as a powerhouse in these disciplines.”

This comes at a pivotal time for Zimbabwe, as the nation drives its heritage-based Education 5.0 agenda — a bold vision that repositions institutions of higher learning as engines of innovation, research, production and community empowerment.
The JICA–MSUAS engagement was officially launched at a ceremony graced by a representative from the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development. The government’s presence underscored its endorsement of forward-thinking initiative.