Prof. Chikodzi appointed GZU Pro-Vice Chancellor

The Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) Council has appointed Professor David Chikodzi as the new Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Research and Innovation, effective 1 August 2025.

Professor Chikodzi brings over 15 years of experience in higher education, research leadership, and institutional innovation. He holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Science from the University of the Western Cape (2019), a Master's in Environmental Policy and Planning (2007), and a B.A. Honours in Geography (2005) from the University of Zimbabwe. He also completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of South Africa (2019–2022) and professional training in Project Management at the University of Pretoria (2021).

At GZU, Prof Chikodzi has served in several key roles, including Lecturer, Dean of the School of Natural Sciences, Deputy Dean, and most recently, Acting Pro Vice Chancellor. He has been instrumental in aligning academic programmes with Zimbabwe's Education 5.0 philosophy, promoting curriculum reform, innovation in mining, engineering, and data analytics, and strengthening partnerships with government and industry.

He is also credited with spearheading strategic initiatives such as the National Centre of Excellence for Computational Intelligence and Actuarial Science, focusing on industry-driven innovation and product development.

As a researcher, Professor Chikodzi has published over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and book chapters on topics including climate change, disaster risk reduction, environmental management, and sustainable development. His co-authored book, "Counting the Cost of COVID-19 on the Global Tourism Industry" (2020), is included in the World Health Organization's recommended reading list.

Beyond academia, he has provided consultancy services to global organisations such as the World Bank, FAO, UNDP, SADC, and the African Capacity Building Foundation, and has supervised numerous postgraduate and international students.

Commenting on the appointment, GZU Vice Chancellor Professor Rungano Jonas Zvobgo said, *"Professor Chikodzi's appointment comes at a critical time in the university's growth. His academic leadership, research excellence, and alignment with Education 5.0 will drive GZU's mission of heritage-based education, innovation, and industrialisation."*

Professor Chikodzi's appointment signals a strong focus on research, innovation, and industrial relevance as GZU seeks to strengthen its position as a leading institution in Zimbabwe and the region.