A major fundraising campaign is in full swing to support the establishment of Gazaland University in Chipinge, a heritage-based institution expected to become a leading centre of academic excellence for Manicaland. The initiative aims to revive and complete a visionary project first proposed in 2002 by the United Church of Christ to expand access to higher and tertiary education in the province.
In an interview with the media yesterday, Mutapa Investment Fund Chief Executive Officer, Dr John Mangudya, who is among the leaders driving the campaign, said the university fits perfectly into the national vision of inclusive development under the principle of leaving no one and no place behind. He highlighted that the institution will offer at least ten programmes, including an innovation incubation hub designed to nurture young talent and stimulate community-driven development.
“Gazaland University will serve Chipinge, Chimanimani and surrounding communities. Universities are centres of excellence, and supporting them strengthens national growth. This project ensures that people in the region can access quality education without travelling far,” Dr Mangudya said.
Founding Chairperson of the Gazaland University project, Phillimon Mlambo, revealed that funds raised so far will go towards completing the administration block and lecture rooms which are key infrastructure required for the university to officially open its doors.
“The purpose of this event is to secure the resources needed to finish the admin block and lecture rooms so we can start operating. This initiative is deeply connected to heritage-based education. The Ndau culture of Chipinge, Chimanimani and Western Mozambique is rich and unique, and we intend to embed its values to contribute meaningfully to national development,” Mlambo said.
The drive to establish Gazaland University stands as a practical demonstration of the Second Republic’s commitment to devolution, empowerment and heritage-based education. Once operational, the institution is expected to play a major role in advancing the Government’s Vision 2030 target of achieving an upper-middle-income society, while unlocking educational opportunities for generations in Manicaland and beyond.
