ZOU Brings Essential Business Skills Training to Chitomborwizi Community
The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has reportedly brought a crucial two-day business training program to Chitomborwizi, aiming to equip local farmers, shop owners, and other entrepreneurs with essential skills for growth. The training program is currently underway, having commenced on Thursday, June 26, 2025, and set to conclude, Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Matoranjera Business Centre. The initiative, facilitated by ZOU’s Faculty of Commerce and Faculty of Technology, through their Community Engagement and Partnerships Committee, is understood to be a significant step towards empowering the local business community.
The ZOU team being introduced to the Chitomborwizi community by the chairperson of the faculties community engagement committee on the left Dr. R. Baipai
On Day 1, participants reportedly began with registration, followed by an opening prayer led by a community representative. Dr. R. Baipai, the chairperson of the faculties community engagement committee delivered the welcome remarks and introductions, emphasizing the program’s objectives.
Mr. O. Guti, a facilitator from ZOU, led the first session, introducing attendees to the fundamentals of business proposals and assigning a practical task. This was followed by Mr. L. Chingwaro, who reportedly guided participants through accounting and financial planning for business proposals, also incorporating a practical assignment. Dr. R. Baipai later oversaw a Q&A session, addressing participants’ queries before a lunch break. The afternoon session saw Mr. R. Muchowe presenting on Human Resources Management, which also included a practical assignment.
Today, Friday, June 27, marks the second and final day of the training. Participants reportedly started with registration followed by a prayer led by a community representative. Dr. R. Baipai oversaw the presentations of the practical assignments from the previous day, allowing participants to showcase their acquired knowledge.
Dr. F. Kanokanga introduced attendees to the concept of Agri-Tourism business, exploring potential new ventures for the community. Ms. A. Bowora then led a session on effective business marketing strategies. After a brief networking break, Ms. S. R. Ruzvidzo and Mr. E. Chimana led two sessions on essential Basic ICT Skills for Business, vital for navigating today’s digital landscape. These practical sessions saw active involvement from Mutoranjera Secondary School Headboy Sean Motsi and Head Girl Amanda Motsi. Their participation in the hands-on IT practicals endowed them with enhanced problem-solving abilities, stronger retention of concepts, significant skill development, and increased confidence. This practical engagement will also allow Sean and Amanda to serve as peer tutors, further solidifying their understanding and benefiting their fellow students. The program concluded with a final Q&A session led by Dr. R. Baipai, followed by closing remarks and a prayer from a community representative.
Mutoranjera Secondary School Headboy Sean Motsi (above) and Head Girl Amanda Motsi leads a team of fellow students to attent the training workshop.
Community members widely praised the program for its practical approach and direct relevance to their entrepreneurial endeavors, promising to enhance business acumen and contribute to the economic development of Chitomborwizi.
Chitomborwizi Community engagement and outreach in pictures
