The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology Development has commended Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) for its exemplary efforts in advancing the Government’s heritage-based Education 5.0 philosophy through innovative and practical agricultural initiatives.
During a tour of the University’s Innovation and Agro-Industrial Park in Headlands, Committee members, led by Honourable Bridget Dadirai Nyandoro, praised the institution for translating academic knowledge into real-world, sustainable development solutions.
“As Parliamentarians, we are on a mission to assess how universities are implementing the Education 5.0 philosophy and bridging the gap between education and societal challenges,” said Hon Nyandoro. “We are pleased with MSUAS’ commitment to national development through hands-on, innovation-driven agricultural projects. The university is equipping students with practical, resourceful skills that will benefit both the economy and the community.”
The visit, which included an inspection of various agro-industrial projects at the park, affirmed MSUAS’ growing role in transforming higher education into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.
MSUAS Vice Chancellor, Prof Albert Chawanda, welcomed the delegation and underscored the significance of the Innovation and Agro-Industrial Park in fulfilling both institutional and national objectives.
“We are honoured by the committee’s visit,” said Prof Chawanda. “The hub reflects our drive towards self-sustenance and practical implementation of Education 5.0, with an emphasis on creating patentable innovations that contribute to Zimbabwe’s industrial transformation.”
The visit included committee members: Hon Patricia Machangu, Hon Makope Master, Hon Mxolisi Sibanda and Hon Juliana Makuvire.
Also present were officials from the Parliament of Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, as well as MSUAS senior leadership and management.
The Headlands tour follows a similar oversight visit to the university’s Fernhill campus in Mutare last week, as part of Parliament’s broader efforts to evaluate the implementation of the national Education 5.0 agenda across Zimbabwe’s State universities.