Zimbabwe Open University and Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission Sign Landmark MOU to Combat Corruption

From left: ZACC chairperson Mr. Michael Reza and Zimbabwe Open University Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Henry Gundani exchange the signed MoU  at ZACC Headquarters in Mt Pleasant, Harare

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at combating corruption in Zimbabwe. The signing ceremony was held at the ZACC headquarters in Mt Pleasant, Harare.

The MOU signed by Professor Paul Henry Gundani, Vice Chancellor of ZOU, and Mr. Michael Reza, Chairperson of ZACC, aims to leverage the strengths of both institutions to solidify the fight against corruption, with ZOU adopting a comprehensive and multi-purpose approach to promote a culture of integrity.

ZOU and ZACC delegates follow proceeding during the signing ceremony

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Prof Gundani emphasised that ZOU will play an important role in the fight against corruption through education and awareness, research and analysis, capacity building and social engagement. “ZOU adopts a comprehensive and multi-purpose approach involving policy development, institutional reforms, capacity building and collaboration with external stakeholders to foster a culture of integrity,” he said.

From left: ZACC chairperson Mr. Michael Reza and Zimbabwe Open University Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Henry Gundani the signing the MoU 

ZOU was the first university in Zimbabwe to establish an integrity committee, and over 120 officials and Student Representative Council members, including Prof Gundani and his deputies signed the integrity pledges.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr. Reza emphasised the importance of institutions of higher learning in the fight against corruption. “Institutions of higher learning such as the Zimbabwe Open University are critical for the realisation of a corruption-free Zimbabwe because they are a catalyst for positive behavioural change,” he said.

ZOU and ZACC delegates exchange pleasantries  during the signing ceremony

Mr. Reza commended Prof Gundani for leading by example in upholding the values of integrity and inspiring members of ZOU to do the same. He stressed that preventing corruption at institutions of higher learning is crucial to maintain academic integrity, ensure equal opportunities, promote ethical behaviour, and improve institutional governance. “Corruption undermines the integrity of academic institutions, creates an uneven playing field, perpetuates inequality, and limits social mobility. “Deserving students may be denied admission, scholarships, or other academic opportunities due to corruption”, said Mr Reza.

From left: ZOU PVC Academic Affairs Professor Ermson Z. Nyakatawa and ZOU Registrar Mr. Tendai A. Kaseke follow proceedings during the MoU signing ceremony

Through this strategic collaboration, ZOU and ZACC aim to prevent corruption and promote a culture of integrity in Zimbabwe’s higher education sector. The partnership between ZOU and ZACC is expected to have a positive impact on academic institutions and society as a whole.

Here is the event in pictures;