As Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) marks 10 years of academic excellence, the University celebrated Africa Month at its Fernhill Campus in a bid to reconnect students with the lessons, values, and wisdom that African culture carries into every generation.

Held under this year’s continental theme, “Celebrating Years of Freedom: Building a Better Africa and a Better World,” the commemorations brought together students and staff for a vibrant showcase of traditional attire, music, poetry, and culinary heritage drawn from Zimbabwe’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Whilst delivering the Vice Chancellor’s remarks, MSUAS Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Upenyu Guyo said the celebrations carried deep meaning for the institution and the continent.

“We do not merely observe a date on a calendar; we honour a profound legacy of resilience, unity, and self-reliance.

“This year’s continental theme challenges us to reflect deeply on our journey, reminding us that the freedom won by our founding forebears was the foundational bedrock upon which we must construct a modern, self-sustaining, and globally competitive Africa.

“The liberation of our continent must now be defended and advanced in the lecture rooms, the laboratories, as well as the innovation hubs of higher education,” said Prof Guyo.

He also highlighted the role of culture in driving innovation, linking African identity directly to the university’s applied sciences mission.

“Our culture gives us our identity and values, while our scientific research gives us the tools to propel that identity into the future.

“By prioritising industrialisation and modernisation through applied sciences, Africa must look inward at its rich soil, minerals, and unique environmental landscape to design solutions that are uniquely African yet globally impactful,” said Prof Guyo.

Those in attendance described the celebrations as an experience that grounded them in identity and purpose, reinforcing the understanding that academic excellence and cultural pride are not separate pursuits but two sides of the same coin.

The Africa Month celebrations forms part of MSUAS’s broader commitment to nurturing well-rounded graduates, not only through academic instruction, but through meaningful engagement with the heritage and values that define who they are and where they are going.