Zimbabwe Open University Hosts Integrity Training Workshop

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) recently held a two-day Integrity Training Workshop at the Management Training Bureau from 10 to 11 April 2025. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement effective integrity action plan.

ZOU Integrity Committee members pose for a photo with ZACC Officials

The ZOU Integrity Committee Chair, Prof. Tavonga Njaya delivered welcome remarks, setting the tone for the workshop. He highlighted that ZOU made history as the first university in Zimbabwe to establish an Integrity Committee in 2023 and has scored a first again by hosting a workshop to come up with an Integrity Committee Action Plan. Integrity Committees are implemented in compliance with Article 5 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption to which Zimbabwe is a State Party.

The sessions were led by presenters from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) who were led by Mr. Gonga.   Ms. Tariro Kadzviti covered key topics, including the concept of integrity and its importance in institutions. she also outlined the objectives and implementation of integrity action plans, highlighting their role in preventing corruption. Mr. Peter Jamhu led a session on corruption risk assessment, focusing on identifying and assessing corruption risks in institutions.

The workshop emphasized the significance of integrity action plans in strengthening institutional integrity by promoting honesty, professionalism, ethics, and truthfulness. It also raised awareness about the damaging effects of corruption among public officials and employees. Furthermore, the workshop discussed establishing effective mechanisms to ensure accountability, transparency, and control within institutions.

Mr Gonga addresses delegates at the Integrity Committee workshop

This initiative aligns with ZOU’s commitment to empowering its students and staff through leadership development and capacity-building programs reflecting the This effort aligns with the university’s mission to be the university of choice in open and distance e-learning, empowering the world through high-quality education.  This workshop reflects its dedication to promoting integrity and fighting corruption. By investing in its students and staff, ZOU aims to foster a culture of integrity and accountability, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and responsible society.

 ZOU has been actively engaged in promoting integrity and fighting corruption, as evident from its establishment of an Integrity Committee in 2023, in compliance with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. This committee plays a crucial role in preventing corruption and related malpractices within the university.

ZOU Integrity Training Workshop in Pictures