Zimbabwe Open University Hosts UPLIFT Agriculture Conference in Nyanga
The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is hosting a three-day international conference on Universities Promoting Linkages for Impactful Training, Innovation and Technology Transfer in Agriculture (UPLIFT-Ag). The conference, which kicked off on Wednesday 5 March 2025 at Montclair Hotel Nyanga, brings together experts from 13 partner institutions across Africa and Europe.
Group photo of the UPLIFT-Ag delegates
Running under the theme ““Universities Promoting Linkages for Impactful Training, Innovation and Technology Transfer in Agriculture (UPLIFT-Ag).” The choice of the venue resonates very well with the conference theme because Monte Clare Hotel and Cassino are within the vicinity of our national pride in terms of natural heritage sites, the Mutarazi Falls and the Eastern Highlands. The conference seeks to share knowledge and experiences on innovative agricultural practices
Welcoming delegates to the Conference, Zimbabwe Open University, Professor Chrispen Chiome, implored the gathering to delve into the diverse narratives that have influenced Agriculture in Africa and beyond. He further impressed upon delegates to engage in enriching discussions and debates, celebrating the diversity and richness of the conference. The co-host Dr Kumbirayi Musiyiwa, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture from Chinhoyi University of Technology also called for the conference to discuss Agriculture, viz-a-viz the Heritage Based Education 5.0 philosophy which emphasises the need to produce goods and services for the nation.
ZOU Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Henry Gundani addresses delegates at the UPLIFT-Ag Conference at Montclair Hotel, in Nyanga on 5 March 2025
Opening the conference ZOU Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Henry Gundani emphasized the importance of innovation and technology transfer in agriculture, citing the need for sustainable practices to ensure food security in the face of population growth, climate change, and resource scarcity. As the host,
“Your presence signifies hope for a sustainable future in agriculture.” He proceeded to say:
The conference aims to provide a platform for collaborative learning, foster competencies, and promote linkages between universities, industry, and government. The event is part of the European Union’s Erasmus Plus Capacity Building project, which seeks to enhance the effectiveness of higher education institutions in Africa.
The conference features paper presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on topics such as curriculum innovation, technology transfer, and industry partnerships. Conference delegates are set to tour some of the successful agriculture centres around Hauna which borders Honde Valley and Nyanga.
The UPLIFT-Ag project involves partner institutions from Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Zimbabwe, as well as European partners from Germany, Denmark, and Italy. The project aims to strengthen the capacity of African universities to provide high-quality training, research, and innovation in agriculture.
The conference is expected to generate new knowledge and ideas on innovative agricultural practices, and to foster collaboration and partnerships among participants.
UPLIFT- Ag Conference in Pictures
