Campus News
Midlands State University’s (MSU) Social of Social Work hosted a delegation of PhD and MPhil scholars from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Technical University Dortmund, Midlands State University, and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) under the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) from 08 to 27 April 2026, marking a significant milestone in regional cooperation that showcases Zimbabwe’s growing status as a sophisticated academic and cultural destination.
The exchange was designed to foster global academic synergy in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), both of which prioritise international partnerships as catalysts for socio-economic transformation.
Welcoming the scholars during a courtesy visit, MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa, underscored the University’s adherence to the Education 5.0 model, which pivots on integrating research and innovation with industrialisation.
“Engagements of this nature are not merely institutional agreements but bridges that connect ideas, cultures, and aspirations,” Professor Muzvidziwa stated.
He further noted the necessity of interdisciplinary approaches, particularly the integration of mental health considerations within modern social work practice to address evolving global challenges.
The scholars’ concluding itinerary across MSU’s diverse campuses, including Zvishavane, Kwekwe, and the Gweru Main Campus, provided a comprehensive view of Zimbabwe’s developmental progress.
From exploring the community impact of projects at the Tugwi-Mukosi Dam to visiting the historic Great Zimbabwe Monuments, the delegation experienced a nation that balances technological advancement with deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Ms. N. Mtetwa, a PhD candidate from UKZN and a Social Work professional within the South African government, expressed profound admiration for Zimbabwe’s academic standards and hospitable environment.
“The level of hospitality and academic openness we experienced in Zimbabwe has been remarkable, and the lessons we have gained here will directly inform our work back home,” Ms. Mtetwa remarked.
Highlighting her confidence in the University’s facilities, she further stated that, “I have been so impressed by the academic environment and the standard of facilities here that I am committed to having my child enrol for engineering studies at the MSU Zvishavane Campus.”
Echoing these sentiments, fellow PhD student Weston Chidyausiku highlighted the professional growth facilitated by the exchange.
“This exchange has broadened our perspective on policy implementation and community engagement. It has deepened our understanding of social work in different contexts,” he said.
The exchange included high-level briefings at the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and visits to national landmarks such as the Parliament of Zimbabwe, successfully projecting Zimbabwe as a leading hub for research and intellectual tourism.
The exchange was designed to foster global academic synergy in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), both of which prioritise international partnerships as catalysts for socio-economic transformation.
Welcoming the scholars during a courtesy visit, MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa, underscored the University’s adherence to the Education 5.0 model, which pivots on integrating research and innovation with industrialisation.
“Engagements of this nature are not merely institutional agreements but bridges that connect ideas, cultures, and aspirations,” Professor Muzvidziwa stated.
He further noted the necessity of interdisciplinary approaches, particularly the integration of mental health considerations within modern social work practice to address evolving global challenges.
The scholars’ concluding itinerary across MSU’s diverse campuses, including Zvishavane, Kwekwe, and the Gweru Main Campus, provided a comprehensive view of Zimbabwe’s developmental progress.
From exploring the community impact of projects at the Tugwi-Mukosi Dam to visiting the historic Great Zimbabwe Monuments, the delegation experienced a nation that balances technological advancement with deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Ms. N. Mtetwa, a PhD candidate from UKZN and a Social Work professional within the South African government, expressed profound admiration for Zimbabwe’s academic standards and hospitable environment.
“The level of hospitality and academic openness we experienced in Zimbabwe has been remarkable, and the lessons we have gained here will directly inform our work back home,” Ms. Mtetwa remarked.
Highlighting her confidence in the University’s facilities, she further stated that, “I have been so impressed by the academic environment and the standard of facilities here that I am committed to having my child enrol for engineering studies at the MSU Zvishavane Campus.”
Echoing these sentiments, fellow PhD student Weston Chidyausiku highlighted the professional growth facilitated by the exchange.
“This exchange has broadened our perspective on policy implementation and community engagement. It has deepened our understanding of social work in different contexts,” he said.
The exchange included high-level briefings at the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and visits to national landmarks such as the Parliament of Zimbabwe, successfully projecting Zimbabwe as a leading hub for research and intellectual tourism.
Published
April 27, 2026 at 4:00 PM
