National University of Science and Technology applauded for construction of Technovation Centre.
Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Joram Gumbo has applauded the progress made in the construction of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Technovation Centre, which is being implemented under the auspices of the 100 Day Cycle Programme.
After his visit to the project site, Minister Gumbo expressed his enthusiasm for the development and the potential of the centre to impart practical skills to students.
Furthermore, “the developments that we have witnessed during the tour, are a clear reflection of a change of focus in our education system that has translated into the construction of Innovation Hubs at institutions of higher learning,” said Minister Gumbo.
Technovation Centre
He added, “I have been briefed that the structure that we have just toured, was initially designed to be a Campus Services Centre, but the building has since been re-purposed to the Technovation Centre as a direct response to the new emphasis of the education sector. I have also been informed that upon completion, the Technovation Centre will accommodate various activities including agriculture- related innovations. entrepreneurship development, intellectual property and technology transfer, university consultancy services; software development, and a renewable energy centre amongst others.”
Minister Gumbo also referred to other similar projects in different provinces of the country, such as the Innovation Centre for Dry Land Agriculture and the Gwanda State University Mining Laboratory, which are expected to transform the drylands and enhance the mining research.
The Technovation Centre, being constructed initially as a Campus Services Centre, will now serve as a hub for various activities including agriculture-related innovations, entrepreneurship development, intellectual property and technology transfer, and software development, among others.
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Innovating for the Nation
However, Minister Gumbo warned against reducing the centre into a space where imitations are created. The solutions from the centre should address the most pressing questions in the country and align with the vision of the government.
Minister Gumbo also commended the university for being the main contractor of the project, which promotes the growth of the local construction industry and the creation of more jobs in the sector. He assured the university that the challenges impeding the smooth implementation of the project, such as protracted procurement processes and a shortage of technicians, would be addressed through engagement with relevant authorities.
Minister Gumbo also emphasized that his office, in collaboration with other stakeholders, will continue monitoring projects to ensure effective implementation by all sectors.
Transforming Our Economy
Additionally, Minister of State Affairs for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Funds, Judith Ncube praised President Mnangagwa’s desire to transform the economy and politics through fostering positive developments that ensures no one is left behind on her speech read on her behalf by Bulawayo provincial director for economic development, Simon Saunyama.
NUST was lauded for its ongoing construction projects, which have already changed the face of the university. Minister Ncube noted that these projects were a testament to the university’s 80-year history and added that the interest will go a long way in supporting the nation’s Heritage-based education pipeline.
One of the major highlights of the speech was the completion of the construction operation centre at NUST. Minister Ncube called upon the university to utilize the tech innovation centre as a platform for strengthening collaborations and coming up with innovations that will see more technologically driven logo innovation products and services.
Strengthening Collaboration
Moreover, “we are excited that NUST is completing the construction operation centre where all technology and innovation activities will happen. I call upon you to utilize the tech innovation centre as a platform for strengthening collaborations where they did come up with innovations that will see us want to see more technologically driven logo innovation products, innovative products and services,” said Minister Ncube.
Minister Ncube concluded by thanking Vice Chancellor Professor E Dlodlo for his support of infrastructure projects, which have been professionally managed and finished on time.
Finishing Projects
“We are going to be requesting that you deliver our appreciation to these agents for supporting infrastructure projects of this management thread by Vice-President Chancellor Professor E Dlodlo to work hard to finish construction for commissioning by His Excellence President Mnangagwa,” said Minister Ncube. She added, “Let us adopt a culture of starting and finishing projects on time. The expectation is that you will officially open this year in November.”
Lastly, the Technovation Centre is expected to be a hallmark of innovation, offering comprehensive support for start-ups, ideation, prototype development, and mentorship, which will be critical to the country’s development.
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