ZOU Student’s VR Initiative Earns National Recognition at POTRAZ 2025 Ideathon: A New Era for Zimbabwean Heritage

A groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by an ambitious Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) student Alpha Zigara, is poised to revolutionize how the world experiences Zimbabwe’s rich cultural tapestry. Zigara, currently in his third year, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, was selected as one of 30 finalists who participated in the 2025 POTRAZ Innovation Drive Ideathon.

Alpha Zigara holds the certificate and medal he was awarded at the POTRAZ Innovation Drive Ideathon 2025.

The Ideathon theme “From Ideas to Impact: Fuelling Innovation for Zimbabwe’s Transformation,” was structured around five key thematic areas: Public Service, Agriculture, Energy, Fintech, and notably, Tourism – the very sector Zigara’s innovation aims to transform. The event held in Masvingo from 20-24 May, aimed to identify and accelerate high-impact digital solutions conceived by young Zimbabwean innovators. Zigara’s innovation stood out amongst a competitive field of 248 submissions from across the country. Currently in its developmental stages, he is diligently working on building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). This pioneering innovation, driven by the vision of a dedicated ZOU student and already validated by its success at the POTRAZ Ideathon, holds immense potential to not only generate significant tourism revenue and enhance cultural education but also to provide a substantial boost to Zimbabwe’s burgeoning digital economy, heralding a new era for cultural preservation and promotion.

Alpha Zigara receives an award from the Minister of ICT Honorable Tatenda Mavetera, while Director General of POTRAZ, Dr. Gift Machengete and Minister of State for Provincial and Devolution Affairs, Masvingo Cde Ezra Chadzamira look on.