In a fervent speech at the official opening of the Harare Institute of Technology’s (HIT) Technovation Expo 2024, the Guest of Honour Deputy Minister for Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda emphasised the critical need for knowledge-based development and innovative thinking in Zimbabwe’s pursuit of economic growth.
The event, which ran from September 3 to 7, 2024, saw the Harare Institute of Technology showcasing its cutting-edge innovations and ideas aimed at transforming Zimbabwe’s technological landscape.
Representing Minister Professor dr. Amon Murwira, Deputy Minister Sibanda expressed his enthusiasm for the expo, which he described as a “platform for young innovators and a catalyst for sustainable development.” He noted that the primary objective of HIT is to nurture talent and create a new generation of leaders who will spearhead the country’s journey towards self-sufficiency and innovation.
“We are a country poised to build a better future through innovation. Our higher education institutions should lead this revolution,” stated Deputy Minister Sibanda, addressing a gathering of students, industry leaders, policy-makers and the academia. He urged the participants to consider the role of innovation in addressing the myriad challenges facing society, stating, “Innovation is not just about disruption, it’s about finding sustainable solutions that create societal resilience and economic equality.”
The Deputy Minister underscored the government’s commitment to fostering environments that promote creativity and entrepreneurship through the establishment of innovation hubs. “These hubs are essential for connecting academia, industry, and government, providing a synergy necessary for transforming ideas into viable economic activities,” he said. He highlighted that the innovation hubs would offer essential services, including legal assistance and marketing, thus enabling startups to flourish within a supportive ecosystem.
Honourable Sibanda acknowledged the profound impact of technology on job creation and the enhancement of living standards, urging stakeholders to invest in research and development as a priority. “We must champion our young people to dream big and move beyond traditional barriers,” he declared. “Encouraging experimentation and accepting failure as part of the learning process are crucial steps towards achieving success in innovation.”
Reflecting on the theme of the expo, “Building Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future,” the Deputy Minister challenged participants to think creatively about their ideas and how they can contribute to national development. He remarked, “When we step beyond fear and take risks in innovation, we pave the way for progress and prosperity.”
The Technovation Expo featured an array of projects from students and emerging innovators, detailing solutions in fields like renewable energy, agriculture technology, and digital communication. The event provided networking opportunities and workshops aimed at bolstering skills necessary for navigating the evolving technological landscape.
As the event culminated, Deputy Minister Sibanda expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasised that the journey towards becoming a nation of innovators has just begun. “This expo is the first step in a larger vision. Let us embrace the spirit of collaboration and collectively drive the innovations that will shape our future,” he implored.
The HIT Technovation Expo is part of a broader initiative by the university to transform the Institute into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. With the commitment of its Institute Board, Senior Management, Staff, students and stakeholders, Zimbabwe stands at the threshold of a new era in higher education and technological advancement.
The event was attended by the HIT Board Chairperson Dr Grace Taruvinga, Deputy Chairperson Dr Rafemoyo, the Chief Executive for the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) Professor Dzvimbo as well as other delegates from other local universities and tertiary institutions, government agents, industry and commerce.
The Deputy Minister also toured the exhibitions of HIT’s various departments, start-ups and spinoffs, accompanied by HIT Vice Chancellor Prof Eng. Q.C. Kanhukamwe including members of the Institute Board.
