Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zimbabwe Institute of Tax Accountants (ZITA), a strategic partnership that advances the Heritage 5.0 agenda by linking university education to industry and professional practice.

Under the agreement, ZITA will review MSUAS curricula to formalise exemption pathways for MSUAS graduates and create a streamlined route into ZITA’s professional certification programmes. ZITA will also register MSUAS students as student members, support work-related learning placements, and assist graduates to register as public tax accountants with the Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB) and gain recognition by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). The two institutions will further deepen industry collaboration through guest lectures, joint workshops and research.

The partnership matters because it turns academic learning into professional competence. By aligning curricula with professional standards and embedding practical learning, MSUAS is producing graduates who are work-ready, professionally recognised and equipped to contribute to national development and to compete in the global economy.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MSUAS Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Upenyu Guyo, said: “At MSUAS we recognise the importance of strong partnerships, especially between universities and professional institutions, as we develop competent and professional graduates. As we sign this MOU, let us commit to turning this agreement into practical, tangible outputs.”

ZITA Past President, Mr Peter Dube, said the MoU will lead to greater collaboration on taxation issues between the professional body and MSUAS.