Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwean tertiary institutions have been urged to adopt innovative strategies to generate additional income and ease pressure on the government for financial resources.
Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Simelisizwe Sibanda made the call during the question-and-answer session of the National Assembly this week.
He was responding to concerns about a two-month-long lecturers’ strike at the University of Zimbabwe, driven by demands for improved working conditions.
Lupane East legislator Pathisiwe Machangu had asked whether the government has any comprehensive long- term plan to prevent such actions in other institutions of higher and tertiary education.
In response, Sibanda said the long-term solution lies in the Education 5.0 model, which promotes innovation and entrepreneurship within institutions of higher learning.
“As part of Education 5.0, institutions are encouraged to develop innovative projects that can evolve into income-generating ventures, creating a third income stream beyond traditional fees and government grants,” he said, adding that the approach is designed to reduce dependence of universities on limited funding sources.
“The government supports such innovation because it can grow into sustainable businesses that help fund daily operations and supplement salaries. This is already being implemented at the University of Zimbabwe,” Sibanda said.
On Tuesday the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) dismissed some of the lecturers for their role in leading the strike, which is now in its third month and has greatly affected students.
The striking lecturers are demanding a salary increase from the current US$230 to US$2 250 per month.
Those dismissed include Munyaradzi Chamburuka, Bornface Mwakorera, Justin Tandire, and Obvious Vengeyi.
New Ziana
