Matopo university to enrol first students in August

The University of Matopo is poised to enrol its inaugural cohort of students in August, operating from three campuses in Matabeleland South. The institution will focus on dryland studies, climate change, and ecological challenges while also offering mining-related programs, leveraging its strategic location in the gold-rich Insiza District.

The university will utilise existing premises at Brethren in Christ Church (BICC)-run boarding schools, with campuses located in Matopo (Matobo District), Mtshabezi (Gwanda District), and Wanezi (Insiza District). These facilities will be repurposed to accommodate the new students.

The Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education (ZIMCHE) provisionally approved the establishment of the university last month, granting it a 12-month period to meet full licensing requirements. Despite this provisional status, the institution is determined to commence operations as scheduled.

University of Matopo Trust chairman, Professor Henry Sibanda, expressed confidence in the project's launch after a 24-year delay caused by financial hurdles. "They have given us permission to start while we continue developing infrastructure. We'll begin with the facilities we already have, including our Bible Institute at Mtshabezi Mission, which is currently being renovated," said Prof Sibanda.

The university's Mtshabezi campus will house the Faculty of Education, while the Matopo campus will serve as the hub for the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Commerce, Faculty of Law, and graduate studies. The Wanezi campus will focus on the Faculty of Agriculture and Faculty of Mining.

Prof Sibanda emphasised that the university's qualifications will meet national standards. "ZIMCHE has developed a minimum body of knowledge to ensure uniformity across institutions. A degree from the University of Matopo will be equivalent to one from institutions like the University of Zimbabwe or Midlands State University," he explained.

The university's establishment has been largely driven by the BICC community, with church members actively contributing funds for its development. An endowment fund has also been set up to support future expansion, alongside commercial ventures leveraging the university's resources.

In a strategic move, the university has applied for a mining claim in Insiza District to tap into the area's mineral wealth. "There is already mining happening on our land. We realised that instead of others benefiting, we should secure claims for the university. This will help generate revenue to sustain the institution," Prof Sibanda revealed.

Additionally, the university is set to benefit from the ongoing development of the Old Gwanda Road, which connects its Matopo and Mtshabezi campuses. Prof Sibanda described the road as a major boost for connectivity and accessibility.

The launch of the University of Matopo represents a significant milestone in expanding higher education opportunities in Matabeleland South, addressing both regional challenges and economic opportunities.