By Tatiana Mhararira
Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) scooped a bronze medal at the just ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) for being one of the best Zimbabwean education and training exhibitor.
The university secured third place out of more than 50 exhibitors in the higher and tertiary category, which included 20 local and international universities, 10 teacher colleges, 10 polytechnics, and various other training institutions.
Speaking to TellZim News, GZU Information and Public Relations Officer Anderson Chipatiso said the award came after a long period since they last won at ZITF.
“This achievement marks a significant milestone for GZU, marking a decade since the university last received such recognition. As Mark Batterson said, “The day we stop dreaming is the day we start dying.” With that in mind, the university will continue to innovate and introduce new initiatives for the benefit of students and the community,” said Chipatiso.
Chipatiso said GZU won because of its outstanding exhibition at its stand which he said was outstanding..
“This achievement was a testament to the hard work and innovation that set GZU apart in a highly competitive field. The GZU exhibition was dynamic and impactful, highlighting the entire food ecosystem, from the field to the shop where products are commercialized. The stand brought to life the concept of Education 5.0, aligning with the Vision 2030 Industrialization and Commercialization agenda. This approach was in perfect harmony with the 2025 ZITF theme.
“Additionally, the exhibition showcased the university’s commitment to cultural reclamation, particularly in the dry lands agricultural sector, promoting small grain mealie meal as an ideal, sustainable diet. The demand for the product was overwhelming, with stock selling out quickly, requiring restocking by midweek,” said Chipatiso.
He also said the GZU stand displayed some of the products manufactured from the tertiary institution.
“The exhibition also featured various medicinal innovations, including hypertension beverages, diffusers, vaporubs for colds and flu, as well as oils and bath salts designed to alleviate arthritis and muscle pain.
One of the major highlights was the introduction of three varieties of Wezhira wines, available for tasting. Stakeholders provided valuable feedback that will contribute to further refining of the product before its full commercialization,” he said.
Chipatiso said the institution ran a promotion of free application for its next intake that also contributed to the third place as an institution that promote education to many.
“In addition to these innovations, GZU took the opportunity to run a special promotion, offering free applications for the August intake. Many prospective students took advantage of this initiative, further boosted by advertisements for the newly launched certificate and diploma courses for the August 2025 intake. Applicants are encouraged to apply, with scholarships also available for eligible students who possess an offer letter for the August intake.
“The GZU stand was not only an exhibition of innovation but also a showcase of the university’s magnificent infrastructure and its vibrant campus radio station, which captivated visitors and students alike,” said Chipatiso.
GZU students from the School of Natural Sciences excelled at the two day 2025 ZITF Innovators Forum Pitch competition where they attained fourth position out of 115 entrants.
