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University of Matopo could open doors sooner than you think
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The University of Matopo is one step closer to welcoming its first cohort of students as it awaits the official approval from the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (Zimche).
An initiative of the Brethren in Christ Church (BICC), the university was required to meet several Zimche guidelines by January 2026, including establishing a governing council and developing essential infrastructure.
University of Matopo Trust chairman, Professor Henry Sibanda, revealed in an interview that the institution has already made significant progress despite the 12-month provisional period.
"We submitted an update to Zimche detailing our progress against the guidelines. We have appointed an initial nine-member University Council, and Zimche allows up to 15 members," Prof Sibanda said, adding that additional council members will be appointed as more programmes are introduced.
The university plans to offer a range of courses, including BSc Honours in Agriculture, BSc Honours in Computer Science and Cyber Security, BA Honours in Theology and Philosophy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education, and an MBA.
Prof Sibanda confirmed that the recommended principal officers and an interim operational budget were submitted to Zimche in December 2025.
The university will operate across four campuses: Matopo (headquarters), Mtshabezi, Wanezi, and Bulawayo. The immediate construction budget for Mtshabezi Campus is US$490,000, while Matopo Campus plans include pre-construction surveys, architectural plans, and foundational work costing around US$200,000.
Although the project was first conceptualised in 2000, financial challenges delayed its launch for 24 years. The board, however, remains optimistic that the current economic climate is favorable for a successful rollout.
An initiative of the Brethren in Christ Church (BICC), the university was required to meet several Zimche guidelines by January 2026, including establishing a governing council and developing essential infrastructure.
University of Matopo Trust chairman, Professor Henry Sibanda, revealed in an interview that the institution has already made significant progress despite the 12-month provisional period.
"We submitted an update to Zimche detailing our progress against the guidelines. We have appointed an initial nine-member University Council, and Zimche allows up to 15 members," Prof Sibanda said, adding that additional council members will be appointed as more programmes are introduced.
Prof Sibanda confirmed that the recommended principal officers and an interim operational budget were submitted to Zimche in December 2025.
The university will operate across four campuses: Matopo (headquarters), Mtshabezi, Wanezi, and Bulawayo. The immediate construction budget for Mtshabezi Campus is US$490,000, while Matopo Campus plans include pre-construction surveys, architectural plans, and foundational work costing around US$200,000.
Although the project was first conceptualised in 2000, financial challenges delayed its launch for 24 years. The board, however, remains optimistic that the current economic climate is favorable for a successful rollout.
Source - online
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