Students from the Department of Applied Psychology recently embarked on an educational field trip to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Farm in Mutare. The visit provided the students with a rare opportunity to gain first-hand insights into the psychological well-being of inmates and explore the potential role of psychology in rehabilitation.

MSUAS students had the opportunity to interact with inmates, listening to their stories and learning about their experiences. Through these interactions, they gained a deeper understanding of the psychological impact of incarceration.

Commenting on the visit, MSUAS lecturer Memory Matsikure emphasised that the trip bridges the gap between theory and practice. She noted that it provides students with an inspirational atmosphere that helps shape their future careers as psychologists.

“The main objective of the trip is to bridge the gap between theory and practice for our students, showcasing the vital role that prison and correctional services play in enhancing both individual and societal well-being. This experience will undoubtedly shape students’ perspectives and inspire them to apply psychological principles in real-world settings. Additionally, the excursion effectively operationalized the Memorandum of Understanding between MSUAS and ZPCS, fostering greater collaboration and community engagement,” said Mrs. Matsikure.

In 2023, MSUAS and ZPCS signed a memorandum on understanding where the two organisations agreed to collaborate in several areas of mutual interest.