Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) has strengthened its sports development programmes through its partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), following the completion of assignments by two Japanese volunteer coaches who brought specialised expertise to the university’s basketball and volleyball teams.

The university recently held a farewell ceremony to celebrate the contributions of Haruna Yamasaki, who served as the basketball coach, and Azusa Matsumoto, who led volleyball training. The two were deployed to MSUAS under the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) Programme, an initiative administered by JICA.

The programme provides opportunities for Japanese professionals to share their technical knowledge and expertise with institutions in partner countries, contributing to local capacity development and promoting international understanding.

For MSUAS, the engagement provided an opportunity to strengthen its sporting programmes through international expertise while exposing students and staff to different approaches to coaching, teamwork and professional development.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Dr Jerry Chifimbo, the Acting Registrar, highlighted the importance of the partnership in advancing the university’s commitment to providing students and staff with opportunities for development beyond the classroom and work.

He said the collaboration had enabled MSUAS to benefit from specialised coaching expertise while creating opportunities for cultural exchange and knowledge sharing between Zimbabwe and Japan.

The contribution of the two volunteers was also reflected in the development of the university’s sporting programmes.

Representing the Executive Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Isheunesu Amon Chaka, Ms Shellia Manhanga expressed the university’s appreciation to Haruna Yamasaki and Azusa Matsumoto for their dedication and contribution to student development during their assignments at MSUAS. She commended the coaches for sharing their expertise, strengthening the university’s basketball and volleyball programmes, and fostering meaningful relationships with students and staff.

MSUAS Director of Sport, Mr Timothy Ndhlera, said the coaches had introduced greater structure to basketball and volleyball training, helping athletes improve their technical abilities and develop a better understanding of competitive sport.

Staff and students also commended the volunteers for their commitment, discipline and willingness to participate in university activities beyond their coaching responsibilities.

Mr Kenichi Hatori from JICA acknowledged the partnership and the relationship established between the volunteers and the MSUAS community. The representative expressed appreciation for the university’s hospitality and reflected on the experiences gained by the volunteers during their assignments.

Through strategic partnerships and continued investment in student development, MSUAS remains committed to creating opportunities for its students to discover their potential, develop their abilities and pursue excellence across different fields.