By Zachary Gava
Masvingo, – Midlands State University (MSU) has urged persons with disabilities (PWDs) to take advantage of inclusive learning opportunities offered by the institution, saying education remains a powerful tool for empowerment and socio-economic transformation.
Speaking during the second day of the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo on Thursday, MSU Recruitment Officer Lillian Mudavanhu said the university had created an enabling environment that caters for the needs of students with disabilities, but lamented the low enrolment of PWDs in higher education institutions.
Mudavanhu said MSU has over 10 faculties offering diverse academic programmes designed to accommodate learners from different backgrounds and abilities.
“Midlands State University is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing quality higher education. We have developed an inclusive learning environment where students with disabilities can thrive academically and professionally,” she said.
She added that many graduates with disabilities had successfully completed their studies at the university and were now making meaningful contributions in various sectors of the economy.
“We have witnessed lives being transformed through education. Many of our graduates with disabilities have gone on to become professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities. Their success demonstrates that disability is not inability,” said Mudavanhu.
She expressed concern over the low uptake of university education by persons with disabilities, saying misconceptions, lack of information and financial challenges were among factors limiting enrolment.
“It is worrying that the intake of persons with disabilities remains extremely low despite the opportunities available. There is still a gap that needs to be addressed through awareness, support systems and deliberate efforts to encourage more young people with disabilities to pursue higher education,” she said.
Mudavanhu said the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo presented an ideal platform for institutions and stakeholders to engage directly with persons with disabilities and their families on available opportunities.
“This Expo gives us an opportunity to reach out, engage and inspire persons with disabilities to consider higher education as a pathway to independence and economic empowerment. We want them to know that our doors are open and that they belong in our lecture rooms, laboratories and innovation hubs,” she said.
She called on parents, guardians and communities to support learners with disabilities in pursuing their educational aspirations, adding that inclusive education was key to achieving sustainable national development.
The 2026 Zimbabwe National Disability Expo is being held from June 24 to 26 under the theme, “Embracing Disability Inclusion in all Sectors: A Master Stroke for National Prosperity and Economic Development.”
The annual event, a Government initiative aimed at empowering persons with disabilities, brings together ministries, government departments, civil society organisations, communities and disability-focused organisations to showcase the abilities, innovations and contributions of persons with disabilities.
This year’s expo has attracted about 500 exhibitors, including participants from eight countries namely India, Eswatini, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Rwanda and Zambia.
The event will culminate on Friday with President Emmerson Mnangagwa officiating as Guest of Honour.
The expo also celebrates Zimbabwe’s progress in disability inclusion while promoting greater access to education, employment, entrepreneurship and decision-making opportunities for persons with disabilities.
New Ziana
