Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) Strategizes for a Prosperous Future in 2024

The Zimbabwe Open University recently held a strategy review workshop to discuss and align its plans for the year 2024. The two-day workshop, which took place at the Management Training Bureau in Msasa, aimed to review the university’s Strategic Plan 2021-2025 and align it with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) 2021-2025. The workshop was attended by senior members of staff, key stakeholders, and was officially opened by the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development, Professor Dr. Amon Murwira.

During his address, Professor Murwira emphasized the importance of focusing on the most important areas in the university’s strategic plan. He highlighted the need for the university to close the gap between the level of technology produced by the education system and the level of poverty in the country. The ultimate goal, according to Professor Murwira, is to foster a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society by 2030.

The workshop facilitator, Mr. Ronald Nyabocho, stressed the need for the university’s strategic plan to align with the provisions of the parent ministry and the national agenda. The heads of departments presented reports on the institution’s performance in 2023, including successes, challenges, mitigations, and prospects for the upcoming year. These reports were then discussed and analyzed by the workshop attendees.

The workshop concluded with the adoption of proposed changes that will enable ZOU to effectively contribute to the national agenda. These changes include the establishment of business incubation hubs, industrial parks, and community engagement programs. Key stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE), Parent Ministry Officials, ZOU Council, and the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) were all actively involved in the discussions.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Peter Mutanho, Manager of Corporate Planning, expressed his satisfaction with the workshop and encouraged all stakeholders to reflect on the strategies outlined. He highlighted the importance of embracing inclusivity, integrity, accountability, innovation, teamwork, and a client-driven approach moving forward.

The ZOU’s strategic review workshop was a productive and collaborative effort to ensure the university’s plans for 2024 align with the national development agenda. With a strong focus on modernization, industrialization, and embracing technology, ZOU is poised to make a significant contribution towards a prosperous future in Zimbabwe.