Staff Writer
The Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT), Shangani Holistic, and Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation (OGRC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance conservation research and support the Zimbabwean Government’s Education 5.0 initiative.
This partnership will focus on climate change adaptation, community-based conservation, and other ecological research areas.
The agreement, signed at Shangani Holistic ranch, formalises a collaborative approach that allows Chinhoyi University students to access Shangani Holistic’s facilities for hands-on research supported by funding from OGRC.
By pooling resources and expertise, the partnership aims to foster innovative research with the potential to benefit communities and ecosystems across Africa.
Dr Tawanda Tarakini, Deputy Dean of the School of Wildlife and Environmental Sciences at CUT, emphasized the value of this partnership for students, stating that it will enable “cross pollination of ideas in conservation and resource management,” enhancing their practical skills and preparing them for the modern workforce.
Peter Makumbe, Research and Conservation Manager at OGRC, expressed support for Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 model, noting that the collaboration will offer a field site for experiments that could lead to commercialized products and services.
Dr Duncan MacFadyen, Head of OGRC, echoed this excitement, highlighting the importance of turning research findings into impactful, real-world solutions.
This MoU marks a significant step forward in conservation efforts in Zimbabwe, providing CUT students with invaluable experience and resources to drive research that balances environmental stewardship with community needs.
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