Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) recently hosted a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at enhancing the quality of postgraduate supervision and strengthening the research guidance capabilities of academic staff.
The workshop, held at the University’s Fernhill Campus, was facilitated by Professor Eva Brodin from Lund University in Sweden, a globally renowned scholar in higher education pedagogy and research supervision.
The training focused on promoting reflective, ethical, and inclusive supervision practices aligned with international standards.
This workshop comes as MSUAS intensifies efforts to expand its portfolio of postgraduate studies, a strategic move aimed at positioning the University as a centre of excellence in applied research and innovation.
In her presentation, Prof. Brodin highlighted emerging global trends in research publication, with a particular focus on gender representation and equity in academia.
“Research shows there are fewer female academics publishing in international journals worldwide, and this disparity often reflects systemic barriers in research supervision and support,” Prof. Brodin noted.
“We must work to create inclusive environments where all researchers, regardless of gender, receive equal mentorship and opportunities. This requires examining institutional practices and promoting equity.”
She further emphasised that effective supervision thrives on mutual respect and collaboration between supervisors and students, adding that harmony in these relationships enhances productivity, research quality, and academic well-being.
Speaking at the same event, MSUAS Director of Quality Assurance, Dr. Noah Mutongoreni, underscored the significance of investing in supervisory excellence to build Zimbabwe’s research ecosystem.
“Supervision is where research capacity is built or broken. When we invest in supervision quality, we invest in Zimbabwe’s intellectual infrastructure,” Dr. Mutongoreni said.
The workshop covered a wide range of themes, including effective supervisory traits, ethical boundaries, managing challenges, power dynamics, collaboration, unconscious bias, and gender inclusivity in postgraduate research.
Participants also explored real-world case studies involving mature students balancing family responsibilities with research demands, as well as part-time candidates navigating academic pressures.
Through interactive discussions, academics engaged in practical exercises addressing students’ mental health concerns, co-supervision conflicts, and the supervision of unfamiliar research methodologies.
The workshop concluded with participants developing individual action plans to enhance their supervisory practices.
The initiative successfully deepened supervisors’ understanding of ethical, inclusive, and student-centred approaches, equipping MSUAS academic staff with practical tools to elevate the quality and impact of postgraduate research supervision in Zimbabwe.