Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) Board Chairperson, Dr. Grace Taruvinga, called on the institution’s stakeholders to approach the challenges facing the University with a spirit of resilience, adaptability, and strategic foresight.
Speaking at the 54th Institute Board meeting, Dr Taruvinga cautioned that the institution faces significant financial challenges and global uncertainties that require a collective approach. “We also recognize the complexities and uncertainties that confront us, from financial to global challenges,” Dr. Taruvinga said. “We must approach these challenges with a spirit of resilience, adaptability and strategic foresight,” she said.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Taruvinga said HIT holds the hope of this nation in leading its industrialization and economic transformation which is a tall order for all of us associated with this institution.
“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, The President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and HIT Chancellor Dr E.D Mnangagwa and the Hon Minister for the MHTEISTD Prof dr Amon Murwira for entrusting me with this pivotal role. I understand the weight of the responsibility that comes with leading this distinguished Board, and I am committed to upholding the values of our University and advancing its mandate with integrity and diligence. I look forward to a fruitful and enriching working experience with you all during my tenure,” she said.
The Board Chairperson congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on being awarded the 1st runner-up position for the best-performing CEO for public entities for 2023. This recognition, she said, contributed to the uplifting of the institution’s profile on the global landscape.
Dr Taruvinga also expressed her appreciation for the university’s research and innovation efforts, which have garnered national and international recognition. “I am particularly proud of the strides we have made in research and innovation, with several groundbreaking initiatives that have garnered national and international recognition,” she said.
“Let me also take a moment to express my deep gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of our university. From our dedicated staff to our ambitious students and supportive community, their unwavering commitment propels us forward. I am eager and optimistic about the opportunities that await us, as I look forward to working alongside each of you as we embark on this journey together,” the board Chairperson said.
She also expressed gratitude to Treasury for the recent salary review, which she hoped would become a regular occurrence to ensure that staff remain competitively remunerated. “We are grateful to Treasury for the salary review awarded in March 2024,” Dr. Taruvinga said. “We sincerely hope that these reviews become regular so that staff remain cushioned from escalating cost of living and are competitively remunerated as their peers in the region.”
The Board Chairperson also acknowledged the challenges faced in the farm operations, including water supply issues and infrastructure needs, which will take time to address.
In her closing remarks, Dr Taruvinga expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders for their commitment to the university’s mission and strategic plan, urging them to contribute to the University with enthusiasm, respect, and a shared commitment to the betterment of HIT.
