Gwanda State University, Zimbabwe – 15 July 2025 – In a significant stride toward academic excellence and digital transformation, Gwanda State University (GSU) proudly launched the US Embassy University Resource Programme Grant Implementation at a ceremony held at the university’s Recreation Centre.

This transformative initiative, generously supported by the US Embassy in Zimbabwe with a grant of USD 10,000, aims to revolutionize teaching, learning, and research by enhancing access to high-quality scholarly resources and strengthening digital connectivity across campus.

A Visionary Partnership to Drive Knowledge and Innovation

Opening the event, Vice Chancellor Professor DZ Moyo expressed profound gratitude to the United States Embassy for its generous support, describing the grant as a major milestone in the university’s academic journey

“Through this grant—valued at USD 10,000—our University Library has successfully subscribed to the Wiley Online Library, giving our academic community access to thousands of peer-reviewed journals across a broad spectrum of disciplines,” she shared.

Prof. Moyo emphasized the strategic importance of this resource for the Faculty of Natural Resources Management and Agriculture and the Faculty of Mining Engineering, where up-to-date, evidence-based knowledge is vital for driving research and innovation in sectors that are central to Zimbabwe’s economic development.

In addition to expanding scholarly resources, the Vice Chancellor announced the acquisition of three high-capacity Wi-Fi access points, a critical step in promoting digital inclusion and supporting e-learning and collaborative academic work, whether on campus or remotely.

“However, having access alone is not enough,” she cautioned. “What truly matters is effective utilization.”

She commended the Library team for their proactive training campaigns aimed at equipping faculty and students with the skills to make full use of these resources — ensuring the investment delivers lasting value.

Prof. Moyo concluded by connecting the initiative to Education 5.0, Zimbabwe’s visionary higher education framework focused on teaching, research, community service, innovation, and industrialisation.
“By strengthening access to academic resources and digital infrastructure, we are not only enhancing academic performance but also laying a firm foundation for research-driven development, particularly in key fields like agriculture and mining,” she noted.

Unveiling a Renewed Vision for the Library

In his remarks, Deputy Librarian Mr. P Ndhlovu reflected on the broader significance of the grant for GSU:

“This generous grant is more than a financial contribution; it is an investment in the intellectual growth and innovation capacity of our students and staff. It helps us bring world-class research closer to our users, strengthen teaching, and broaden our academic horizons.”

Mr. Ndhlovu formally unveiled the new GSU Library motto — “Your Gateway to Knowledge, Discovery and Innovation” — which he described as capturing the library’s renewed mission: to go beyond providing information and actively open doors to deeper understanding, creative exploration, and ideas that can transform communities and the nation.

“It reaffirms our promise to stand as a dynamic partner in learning and research, connecting our university community to global knowledge and local solutions,” he said.

He also highlighted the practical impact of the Wiley Online Library subscription and the improved Wi-Fi infrastructure, which together create an environment where all members of the academic community can thrive.

Mr. Ndhlovu expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor’s Office for strategic leadership, the Bursar and Registrar for administrative support, the Faculty of Natural Resources Management and Agriculture for helping shape the proposal, and the Library team for their commitment to expanding resource access.

Empowering Faculty and Students

The launch event included interactive demonstrations to introduce faculty and students to the new digital resources and explore how they could be integrated into research, teaching, and learning.

Dr. P Zanamwe, Acting Director – Research, Innovation and Industrialisation, underscored the transformative potential of these resources:
“Access to these resources will elevate our academic pursuits and enrich the educational experience for our students.”

A Transformative Journey Begins

The launch marks a turning point in Gwanda State University’s mission to become a hub of research, innovation, and inclusive education. With enhanced scholarly resources and digital infrastructure, GSU faculty and students are now better positioned to engage in global academic dialogue, conduct impactful research, and contribute to national development goals.