Terms and Conditions for Using the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) Website and Affiliated Services


1. Acceptance of Terms
By accessing or using the ZOU website or affiliated services, you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree, you must not use the website or services.

2. Use of Website
The ZOU website and its affiliated services are intended for lawful use to support and enhance education, research, and administration within ZOU.
Users are prohibited from uploading, sharing, or distributing any content that violates copyright laws, is defamatory, obscene, or otherwise harmful.
3. Content Ownership
Unless otherwise indicated, all content on the ZOU website is the property of the Zimbabwe Open University and protected under copyright laws.
Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of content is prohibited.
4. Privacy and Data Protection
ZOU is committed to protecting user privacy. Data collected through the website is handled according to ZOU’s Privacy Policy and national data protection laws.
Users are responsible for safeguarding their login credentials and must report any suspected unauthorized access to ZOU’s IT department.
5. Network and Bandwidth Usage
Users accessing the website agree to use bandwidth responsibly. Activities such as downloading large files or streaming, which could disrupt services, are monitored and may be restricted.
Unauthorized attempts to access the network or interfere with other users’ experience are strictly prohibited.
6. Email and Internet Usage
ZOU email accounts provided to users are the official means of communication and must be used for educational or administrative purposes only.
Sending or accessing inappropriate content through ZOU’s email or network services is prohibited.
7. Accessibility
ZOU strives to ensure its website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. If you encounter any barriers, please contact the Webmaster for assistance.
8. External Links and Advertisements
The ZOU website may contain links to external websites. ZOU is not responsible for the content or policies of external sites.
Advertisements and sponsorships must align with the mission of ZOU and are subject to approval.
9. Security
Users must not engage in activities that compromise the security of the ZOU website or affiliated systems, including introducing malware, unauthorized access, or hacking.
ZOU employs encryption and firewalls to protect user data and system integrity.
10. Updates and Changes
ZOU reserves the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Users are advised to review them periodically.
11. Breach of Terms
Any violation of these Terms and Conditions may result in the suspension or termination of access and, where necessary, legal action.
12. Contact Information
For queries or support related to the website and services, please contact:

IT Department: itsupport@zou.ac.zw
Webmaster: webmaster@zou.ac.zw
13. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of Zimbabwe.
https://zou.ac.zw/terms-and-conditions/
and the privacy page

Privacy Statement for Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) Website
1. Introduction
Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Statement outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your data when you access our website or use affiliated services.

2. Data Collection
We may collect the following types of data:

Personal information you provide when registering for services, filling out forms, or contacting us (e.g., name, email address, phone number).
Technical information, such as IP address, browser type, operating system, and usage data collected automatically through cookies and similar technologies.
3. Use of Collected Data
The data collected may be used to:

Provide and improve ZOU’s educational and administrative services.
Respond to your inquiries or requests.
Ensure the security and functionality of the website.
Analyze website usage for improvement purposes.
Send notifications, updates, or relevant communications.
4. Data Sharing and Disclosure
ZOU does not sell or rent your personal data to third parties. However, your data may be shared:

With authorized personnel within ZOU to fulfill educational or administrative purposes.
With third-party service providers (e.g., IT support) under strict confidentiality agreements.
When required by law, court orders, or to protect ZOU’s legal rights.
5. Cookies and Tracking
Our website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience. Cookies are small data files stored on your device that help us:

Recognize returning visitors.
Analyze usage patterns.
Provide personalized content.
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings; however, doing so may affect the functionality of the website.

6. Security
ZOU employs robust security measures, including encryption and firewalls, to protect your data against unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. However, no system is entirely secure, and users are encouraged to safeguard their account credentials.

7. Your Rights
You have the right to:

Access the personal data we hold about you.
Request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete data.
Request deletion of your personal data, subject to legal or regulatory obligations.
Withdraw consent for specific data processing activities.
To exercise your rights, contact privacy@zou.ac.zw.

8. Retention of Data
ZOU retains personal data for as long as it is necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Statement and comply with legal obligations.

9. External Links
The ZOU website may contain links to third-party websites. ZOU is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

10. Updates to this Privacy Statement
This Privacy Statement may be updated periodically to reflect changes in ZOU’s practices or applicable laws. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.

11. Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Statement or how your data is handled, please contact:

Email: privacy@zou.ac.zw
Phone: +263 4 793 002
Address: Zimbabwe Open University, Harare, Zimbabwe