Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) which will see inmates acquiring sustainable training which is integral in the post-prison life.

Speaking at the signing ceremony that was held at MSUAS Fern Hill Main Campus in Mutare, ZPCS Correctional Services Officer, Mr Isaac Sibiya said prisons have moved from an era where inmates are punished excessively to an era where rehabilitative measures are employed for them to contribute to the development of the nation.

“As ZPCS we have introduced correctional industrialization where prisoners should prisoners should acquire knowledge through practical courses and university degrees whilst incarceration. Collaborating with MSUAS through a memorandum of understanding can buttress our mandate of imparting correctional services and such partnerships can do wonders to empower communities,” said Mr Sibiya.

Commenting on the memorandum of understanding, the Vice Chancellor of MSUAS, Professor Albert Chawanda reiterated that it was part of the university’s vision to make such tremendous developments that can transform people’s lives through community engagement.

“The university envisions itself being involved in real life projects that are in link with the execution of government’s thrust of becoming a prosperous and empowered upper middle income society by 2030. I believe that our collaboration with ZPCS will allow inmates to study at MSUAS taking into consideration the time they spend in prison,” said Prof Chawanda.

The MOU will go a long way in capacitating staff, students and inmates through experience and knowledge sharing, research and innovation as well as generating opportunities for sustainable projects in both organizations.