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Kudzai Chikiwa, Chronicle Reporter
NEWLY appointed Gwanda State University (GSU) Vice Chancellor Professor Ntombizakhe Mlilo has said the institution’s vision is to facilitate economic transformation in Matabeleland South Province.

Prof Mlilo, who is the first vice chancellor of GSU, was appointed last month by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is also the chancellor of all State universities.

The GSU vice chancellor said higher and tertiary institutions are meant to bring socio-economic development in areas where they are located.

Prof Mlilo said in its thrust to bring development to Matabeleland South, the institution will introduce more degree programmes that are centred on science, technology and industrial development.

“The mandate of the university was designed looking at economic opportunities that exist in the province. Therefore our vision is to change the industrial face of our town and province starting by training manpower for the different sectors of the economy,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor said new programmes include Veterinary Science courses, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical and Eectronic Engineering and Ecosystem Restoration, Meteorology and Irrigation Engineering.

She said the institution will review its programmes to respond to industrial needs.

“It is also important to introduce business, management and information courses that support the mining and agricultural industries,” she said.

Prof Mlilo said GSU which has students and lecturers accommodation at Epoch Mine Campus, will expand its infrastructure.

“My vision is to develop infrastructure which meets the housing demand at the university as well as attract industry to the small town of Gwanda,” said Prof Mlilo.

She said the GSU will focus on production and innovation.

Prof Mlilo said it is the collective responsibility of staff, students and the community to make sure that GSU does its best to transform the province’s economy.

“Members of staff should participate in provincial meetings so as to be aware of the province’s needs.

For example, we should have representatives attending devolution meetings,” she said.

Prof Mlilo said GSU should be recognised nationally and internationally and students should do their best in carrying out research that brings socio-economic development as well as improve the university’s ranking.

She said students should be conscious that the development of the country is in their hands hence they should embrace science and technology. — @tamary98.