Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) has taken a bold step towards fostering a proactive, risk-aware culture through a one-day workshop held at its Fernhill Campus in Mutare.
Dubbed “Risk Champions”, the workshop was facilitated by Professor Stanley Mutenga from Starz Risk Solutions.
The programme aimed at equipping MSUAS staff with practical skills to identify, assess and mitigate risks within their respective departments.
Participants were trained to serve as departmental risk champions — acting as the first line of defense in identifying emerging threats and opportunities, while embedding risk awareness into everyday decision-making.
Representing Vice Chancellor Professor Albert Chawanda, MSUAS Deputy Registrar Dr. Jerry Chifimbo expressed gratitude to Prof Mutenga for facilitating the session, noting its significance in strengthening the University’s governance systems.
“The insights shared and the discussions fostered during this workshop have undoubtedly equipped our team with invaluable knowledge and strategies to enhance our institution’s risk management framework. As the global landscape becomes increasingly complex, managing risk is no longer a specialised skill but a fundamental necessity for organisations and individuals alike,” he said.
In his presentation, Prof Mutenga emphasised that risk is an inevitable aspect of organisational life, ranging from operational challenges and strategic uncertainties to unforeseen external shocks. What sets resilient institutions apart, he highlighted, is their ability to manage risks proactively.
“The goal of this workshop is to empower MSUAS staff to play a central role in strengthening the University’s overall risk management framework. Successful institutions are not those without risks, but those that manage them effectively. This is precisely where the role of a risk champion becomes indispensable,” he said.
The workshop forms part of MSUAS’ broader commitment to enhancing institutional resilience and promoting good governance.
By decentralising risk management, the University seeks to instill a culture of collective responsibility and build a sustainable, adaptable institution capable of navigating an increasingly complex environment.