By Fortunate Nadine Black
Mutare, 7 October 2025 — The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development has begun a four-day strategic planning workshop in Mutare to review progress under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and lay the groundwork for the upcoming NDS2 (2026–2030).
The workshop, running from 6 to 10 October at the Golden Peacock Villa Hotel, brings together key players in the education sector — including Minister Senator Frederick . Makamure Shava, his deputy Hon. Simelisizwe Sibanda, university vice-chancellors, principals of polytechnic and teachers’ colleges, and student representatives.
Opening the meeting, Minister Shava called for collective reflection and bold planning as the Ministry transitions from NDS1 to NDS2.
“If you can’t predict the future, create it,” he said, urging institutions to craft forward-looking policies that drive innovation and respond to global education trends.
He said evaluating the outgoing strategy was vital for building a stronger, more responsive five-year roadmap that supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
Deputy Minister Sibanda challenged institutions to bridge the gap between research and industry.
“We must move from theory to tangible outcomes. Our institutions should not only produce graduates but innovators and problem-solvers who meet community and industrial needs,” he said.
The workshop will assess achievements and challenges from NDS1 (2021–2025) while ensuring the new strategy aligns with the goal of creating a knowledge-driven, industrialized economy.
Students applauded their inclusion in the process, saying it showed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive planning.
“As students, we feel inspired to see that our voices are being heard in shaping the education of tomorrow,” said Tariro Moyo from the University of Zimbabwe.
Brian Nyathi from Mutare Polytechnic added:
“It’s encouraging to see policymakers valuing student input. It motivates us to contribute ideas that can improve learning and training relevance.”
Throughout the four days, participants are expected to present reviews, share institutional experiences, and develop strategies to strengthen innovation, research, and skills development.
The workshop underlines the Ministry’s determination to ensure higher and tertiary education remains central to Zimbabwe’s transformation and innovation drive under Vision 2030.