Latest news with #UniversityofZimbabwe
The Star
3 days ago
- General
- The Star
Zimbabwean students showcase language skills at Chinese proficiency contest
HARARE, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese language learners in Zimbabwe on Friday showcased their language skills during the 24th "Chinese Bridge" competition organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare, the country's capital. Drawing participants from primary schools, high schools, and colleges, the competition consisted of a speech in Chinese and a talent show. Kudakwashe Makoni, a student of political science and diplomacy at the University of Zimbabwe, stood out with his grasp of the Chinese language and knowledge of Chinese culture. He told Xinhua that the Chinese language serves not only as a practical skill to learn in a globalized world, but also as a bridge between the two countries. "Learning Chinese provides huge opportunities for Zimbabweans. You can get scholarships to study in China, and also, with the rapidly growing Chinese economy, there is an opportunity for trade, so we can leverage the opportunity to create an amicable relationship between Zimbabwe and China," he said. Thandeka Risinamhodzi, a high school student from Harare, was elated to be crowned the champion in the high school students' segment. "Chinese is a very exciting language that you can learn. Learning Chinese benefits in many ways, like in Zimbabwe, most things involve the Chinese, like job opportunities," she said. Makoni and Risinamhodzi will represent Zimbabwe at the international finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competition in China later this year. In his address to the contest, Attwell Mamvuto, pro-vice-chancellor for academic affairs and administration at the University of Zimbabwe, said the competition not only celebrates linguistic excellence, but also marks the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries. "Learning a new language opens doors to new opportunities, fosters understanding, and builds bridges between people from different backgrounds. The Chinese language, with its rich history and vast number of speakers, is a particularly valuable asset. It also augurs well with the University of Zimbabwe's strategic thrust on the internationalization agenda as well as academic and cultural exchanges," he said. Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding said the growing number of Zimbabweans learning Chinese demonstrates the language's global prominence and the importance and vitality of the enduring partnership between China and Zimbabwe. "This year, as we celebrate the 45th anniversary of China-Zimbabwe diplomatic relations, which are rooted in solidarity, shared aspiration, and mutual benefit, we also celebrate decades of our joint achievements, which include the robust educational and cultural collaboration between our two countries," Zhou added.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Strike shutters Zimbabwe's main university
Representative Image HARARE: More than 100 lecturers and teaching staff picketed at Zimbabwe's main university Tuesday to back a five-week wage strike that has already forced the cancellation of exams. Lecturers at the University of Zimbabwe downed tools on April 16 to demand an increase in salary from $230 (US dollars) to $2,500 per month, the amount they were last paid back in 2018 before a massive currency change and devaluation. Zimbabwe National Students Union students joined the staff at the third picket outside the university in central Harare since the indefinite strike began. There have been no classes since the action started and students were unable to write exams due two weeks ago, Association of University Teachers (AUT) representative Obvious Vengeyi said. "The administration suspended five of AUT leaders hoping the strike will go off but unfortunately they have added fuel to the fire," he told AFP on the sidelines of the demonstration. "If they do not address our demands, this university will close its doors for the first time since it was opened in 1952," Vengeyi said. The AUT said the university employs about 1,200 lecturers and other teaching staff but only 17 were working. Earlier this month, six students were arrested and charged for protesting in support of the teachers. "We have realised that the lecturers are the cornerstone of our education so their mistreatment means that there is no progress that can happen at this university," student leader Darlington Chingwena told AFP. Lecturers are demanding their monthly salaries be pegged at $2,500, which they say is on par with other regional higher education institutions. Salaries were devalued after Zimbabwe shifted from the US dollar in 2019 to a local quasi-currency known as the RTGS (real time gross settlement). It was replaced by a new gold-backed currency launched in April 2024 with the aim of tackling sky-high inflation and stabilising the country's long-floundering economy. According to a document seen by AFP, the university -- which reportedly has around 18,000 students -- said last week it will replace the striking staff with temporary hires. str/br/ho/giv
Arabian Post
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Arabian Post
University of Zimbabwe Faces Backlash Over Meagre Pay for Replacement Lecturers
The University of Zimbabwe has sparked widespread criticism by offering adjunct lecturers a paltry US$5.50 per hour to replace striking academic staff, intensifying an ongoing labour dispute that has disrupted operations at the country's premier higher education institution. Lecturers, represented by the Association of University Teachers , initiated an indefinite strike on 16 April, demanding a return to pre-2018 salary levels of US$2,250 per month for junior faculty. Currently, most earn less than US$300, supplemented by a Zimbabwe Gold component that, when converted, amounts to under US$200—an effective 87% pay cut. The university's decision to recruit adjuncts at such low rates has been met with outrage from both academic and student communities. AUT leaders argue that the move undermines the quality of education and reflects a disregard for the welfare of educators. 'We have subsidised this university for more than seven years,' said AUT spokesperson Professor Obvious Vengeyi. 'On the contrary, they have plundered it.' ADVERTISEMENT The strike has led to significant disruptions, with many classes suspended and students expressing concern over the continuity of their education. Tafadzwa Katsande, a representative from the Zimbabwe National Student Union , voiced solidarity with the lecturers, stating, 'We understand your plight better because we are your children before you are our lecturers. Even if we don't attend classes for the whole semester, let it be so.' The government's response has been mixed. Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba acknowledged the legitimacy of the lecturers' grievances, noting that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had approved a welfare proposal to address the issues. However, implementation has been delayed, leading to further frustration among the academic staff. In an attempt to quell the unrest, UZ suspended several AUT leaders, including President Phillemon Munyaradzi Chamburuka and Treasurer Obvious Vengeyi, citing charges of inciting unrest. These suspensions were later revoked following legal challenges and public outcry. Vengeyi commented on the revocation, suggesting it was a tactic to distract from the core issue of fair remuneration. The situation escalated when police arrested three lecturers during a peaceful protest at the university's main entrance. Those detained included Professor Vengeyi, Dr Desmond Ndedzu, and Group Captain Boncase Mwakorera. The arrests drew condemnation from various quarters, with critics accusing authorities of suppressing lawful demonstrations. Despite these challenges, the AUT remains steadfast in its demands. Lecturers have withdrawn not only their teaching services but also their participation in research and administrative duties. They have also ceased using personal resources, such as laptops and mobile data, for university-related work. The broader economic context in Zimbabwe, marked by hyperinflation and currency instability, has exacerbated the crisis. Many lecturers report struggling to afford basic necessities, with some unable to pay for their children's education or meet daily living expenses. The AUT has highlighted these hardships in communications with university management, emphasizing the urgent need for salary adjustments.
TimesLIVE
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Five minutes with Star FM presenter Miss Donna
Radio presenter and producer Miss Donna, who works for Zimbabwe's Star FM, is passionate about her craft. The 23-year-old personality and University of Zimbabwe accountancy student, real name Donna Murimwa hosts the station's drive-time show 32 6 Express and Hotsotso, Truth or Trash, and Mubvunzo Nhando shows. TshisaLIVE caught up with her for a chat. Can you tell us about your journey to joining Star FM? In 2019, I was searching for an internship to complement my accountancy studies at the University of Zimbabwe. After distributing my CV, I received several promising responses, and if I'm being honest, I picked Star FM solely because it was the closest to my house. I'm not the most punctual person you know. Little did I know God had bigger plans. During my internship in the finance department, I unexpectedly discovered my passion for radio presenting. This newfound interest led me to pursue concurrent radio training with our head of programming Steve Vickers. The rest, as they say, is history. What has been your most memorable moment on air so far? My first day on radio was unforgettable. As an assistant producer on Star FM's drive-time show 326 Express, I was unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight. Our drive-time presenter KVG opened the mic, introduced me and asked for my thoughts on a topic she was discussing. My nerves took over and I was stunned into silence — a rookie mistake that felt like an eternity. Luckily, KVG handled the awkward moment with professionalism and poise, minimising the damage. After the show, she offered valuable advice on managing my nerves and anxiety. I'm forever grateful for her guidance. The next time I was called on, I was ready to shine. How do you prepare for your shows and what does a typical day look like for you? I love prepping for my weekend breakfast show — Star breakfast! During the week, I'll be gathering little bits and pieces of the show. The night before, I chat with my producer to plan an epic show, and then I dive into social media to see what's buzzing. Come Saturday morning, I'm pumped to share the energy with our listeners. After the show, I get to do what I love most — host events, meet amazing people and spread joy. Or, if I need a chill day, I treat myself to some me-time. Either way, Saturdays are the best.
The South African
13-05-2025
- Politics
- The South African
Zimbabwean university students arrested amid lecturers' salary dispute
Six students from the University of Zimbabwe were arrested on Monday after staging a surprise protest over the institution's ongoing staff strike. The students demanded immediate action to resolve the lecturers' month-long industrial action, which has stalled academic progress. University security disrupted the protest and took the students to Avondale Police Station. The arrested students are: UZ ZINASU chairperson Narshon Kohlo, Tafadzwe Katsande, Blessing Mtis, Tawananyashe Hove, Nodesha Maingehama, and Tariro Mtukura. Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) president Narshon Kohlo described the situation at the university as unbearable, according to New Zimbabwe . 'We are here protesting against the University of Zimbabwe's Professor Paul Mapfumo and Munyaradzi Madambi, who are denying us our right to education, Kohlo said. 'We paid full tuition fees, and we expect learning services in return. In this block, we did not write exams because we did not have lectures. They are trying to act as if everything is normal when nothing is normal. It cannot be business as usual at the University of Zimbabwe until the lecturers are back. The solution is very simple: pay our lecturers. Compensate them fairly. Pay them decent salaries and decent wages.' University of Zimbabwe lecturers are demanding that their salaries be adjusted to US$2 250 (R40 950), citing regional parity. They've also raised concerns over 'incapacitation,' saying they're relying on personal funds to carry out academic duties. As part of their ongoing protest, lecturers have pulled out of all official responsibilities, including invigilating and grading. Nonetheless, the university confirmed last week that exams would continue, drawing sharp criticism from students. Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
