Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic CorrespondentTHE Chancellor of Lupane State University, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, this Friday capped 1,558 graduands at the institution’s 16th graduation ceremony held in Lupane, reaffirming government’s commitment to advancing higher education as a key driver of national development.With a current enrolment of over 4,000 students, Lupane State University continues to produce graduates in critical disciplines including agricultural sciences, commerce, humanities and social sciences who are expected to contribute positively to the country’s growth trajectory.Vice Chancellor Professor Pardon Kuipa expressed gratitude to the government for the financial support channeled towards infrastructure development, particularly the ongoing Technovation Centre Construction Project.“We wish to thank you, Your Excellency and Chancellor, for availing ZIMDEF funds amounting to US$800,000, which have allowed us to advance the Technovation Centre construction. The project is progressing well, and we appeal for continued support so we can relocate students and staff from Bulawayo as soon as possible,” said Professor Kuipa.The university is also embarking on the development of a waterfront resort and conference centre aimed at enhancing practical teaching and skills development in tourism and hospitality.“We have received an environmental impact assessment certificate, paving the way for construction on the shores of the Bubi-Lupane Dam. The facility will provide training opportunities, accommodation, and recreational facilities,” he added.Professor Kuipa highlighted that the university’s programmes are anchored on innovation, industrialisation, and community-focused research.“There is deliberate effort to anchor student learning around the production of goods and services and applied research that provides solutions to industry challenges,” he said.Graduates expressed readiness to contribute to national development.“I specialise in agriculture and believe I can contribute to maximising land productivity,” said one of the graduates.“As graduates, we have a role in moving the nation forward, and we are ready,” added another.President Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised the importance of the youth in driving Zimbabwe’s economic agenda, with graduations such as this marking a key milestone in harnessing the country’s human capital for sustainable development.
Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
THE Chancellor of Lupane State University, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, this Friday capped 1,558 graduands at the institution’s 16th graduation ceremony held in Lupane, reaffirming government’s commitment to advancing higher education as a key driver of national development.
With a current enrolment of over 4,000 students, Lupane State University continues to produce graduates in critical disciplines including agricultural sciences, commerce, humanities and social sciences who are expected to contribute positively to the country’s growth trajectory.
Vice Chancellor Professor Pardon Kuipa expressed gratitude to the government for the financial support channeled towards infrastructure development, particularly the ongoing Technovation Centre Construction Project.
“We wish to thank you, Your Excellency and Chancellor, for availing ZIMDEF funds amounting to US$800,000, which have allowed us to advance the Technovation Centre construction. The project is progressing well, and we appeal for continued support so we can relocate students and staff from Bulawayo as soon as possible,” said Professor Kuipa.
The university is also embarking on the development of a waterfront resort and conference centre aimed at enhancing practical teaching and skills development in tourism and hospitality.
“We have received an environmental impact assessment certificate, paving the way for construction on the shores of the Bubi-Lupane Dam. The facility will provide training opportunities, accommodation, and recreational facilities,” he added.
Professor Kuipa highlighted that the university’s programmes are anchored on innovation, industrialisation, and community-focused research.
“There is deliberate effort to anchor student learning around the production of goods and services and applied research that provides solutions to industry challenges,” he said.
Graduates expressed readiness to contribute to national development.
