Gazaland University Takes Shape In Chipinge After Decades Of Planning

Construction of Gazaland University in Chipinge, spearheaded by the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe (UCCZ), has begun after a 23-year wait.

Located on a 120-hectare site in Chipinge Urban, the university’s main complex, which includes administration offices, lecture theatres, and an auditorium, is currently at the roofing stage, having commenced construction last year.

Interim university council chairman, Philmon Mlambo, said they are working closely with the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE), the Government, and Chipinge Town Council to ensure the successful establishment of the institution. Said Mlambo:

We are finalising requirements, including securing qualified administrators, lecturers, and requisite infrastructure, before applying to ZIMCHE for provisional charter consideration.

Mlambo said construction of Gazaland University began in November 2023, following the approval of architectural plans by Chipinge Town Council. He said:

After clearing the grounds, we underwent the tendering process and appointed a contractor. We are currently constructing the administration block, which will house offices, lecture rooms, and lecture theatres.

The building is now at roof level. We will complete the lecture rooms, secure boarding houses, and then invite Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education (ZIMCHE) for inspection. Once we obtain the provisional charter, we can begin classes.

Mlambo added that, while awaiting the provisional charter, the university is prioritising the recruitment of key leadership positions, including the vice chancellor, pro vice chancellor, and bursar, as well as securing staff and student accommodation. He said:

We are confident that we will meet the requirements for the March 2026 intake. The provisional charter is the biggest variable, but we are on track to secure it.

We will start with less capital-intensive courses and gradually introduce others as we progress. We aim to be a general institution offering various programmes.

Mlambo said the university will prioritise programmes in Agriculture, Technology, Mining Engineering, and Health Sciences, capitalising on the region’s unique agro-ecological strengths.

Programmes will be introduced in phases, beginning with Humanities, followed by degrees in Engineering and Technology.

He attributed the delayed start of construction to high costs and the university’s reliance on funding from church members.

However, he noted that the project has received support from the Government, through the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, as well as from Chipinge Town Council.

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