Tinaani Nyabereka
Gweru – Midlands State University (MSU) and ZB Financial Holdings recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that is aimed at driving collaborative efforts between the two in terms of commercialization.
The MOU was jointly signed by the MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa, and the ZB Financial Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Shepherd Fungura.
The MoU will see Midlands State University and ZB Financial Holdings establishing a strong foundation that sets the stage for a long-term partnership in promoting education 5.0
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at MSU main campus, Proff Muzvidziwa said the University was excited to partner with a giant in the financial services sector saying the partnership will promote education 5.0
“This partnership expresses the desire of industry to support the national developmental and higher education philosophy of Education 5.0. This is an example of an intentional and collaboration-based strategy to nurture academia-industry partnerships that not only strengthen networks but stretch the limits of innovation.
“There is no doubt that both parties will leverage the strengths and expertise of each other to drive innovation, promote financial inclusion, and develop a robust talent pipeline in the financial technology sector,” said Muzvidziwa.
He said the friendly relationship was designed to promote sustainable and productive collaboration and exchange between the University, ZB Bank, researchers, students, innovators and employees of both parties
On his part Dr Fungura said the strategic partnership was handy in the digital era to promote innovation ecosystems.
“As ZB, innovation and agility are at the core of our business- our people are our innovation and in this digital era, the development of innovation ecosystems becomes crucial hence, the need for strategic partnerships such as this one.
“It is my belief that this symbiotic relationship will ensure research collaborations and problem solving, technology knowledge transfer leading to relevant product development, talent identification and student empowerment, work related learning and continuous promotion of innovation,” said Dr Fungura.
