ZOU Research and Innovation Week Begins with a Strong Focus on National Transformation
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has officially launched its inaugural Research and Innovation Week, which runs from 29 to 31 July 2026 at the Harare Chitungwiza Regional Campus in Hatcliffe, bringing together academics, researchers, innovators, industry leaders and students to showcase ideas that can drive Zimbabwe’s development.
Held under the theme, “From Ideas to Impact: Advancing Research and Innovation for National Transformation,” the three day event seeks to demonstrate how research, innovation and open and distance learning can contribute to achieving the country’s development goals under National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030.
The opening session began with a warm welcome to delegates before Zimbabwe Open University Vice Chancellor, Professor P.H. Gundani, officially set the tone for the week through a high level presentation that challenged researchers and innovators to transform academic knowledge into practical solutions capable of improving communities, industries and the national economy.
One of the day’s highlights is the keynote public lecture by renowned academic Professor K.P. Dzvimbo, who is presenting on “Heritage Based Education 5.0 in ODeL Settings.” The session, facilitated by Professor E.Z. Nyakatawa, explores how Zimbabwe’s heritage, indigenous knowledge systems and modern open and distance eLearning can be integrated to stimulate innovation, industrialisation and sustainable national development.
Throughout the week, participants will also engage in a series of specialised sessions covering Artificial Intelligence, Green Business, Legal Frameworks and Transformative Education, providing a platform for collaboration between academia, government, industry and the wider community.
The inaugural event also features the Vice Chancellor’s Business Plan Competition, Innovation Exhibitions, Hackathon Challenge, and a Research Conference, highlighting Zimbabwe Open University’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, technological advancement and impactful research.
As activities continue over the next three days, Livezw will provide updates on the major presentations, innovations and discussions shaping the future of research and higher education in Zimbabwe.
Reporting by Livezw.
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