The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province this week attended a high-level public lecture at Solusi University, held under the theme “Forging a Future-Ready Public Servant for Zimbabwe: Innovation, Competency and Equity in the Digital Age.”
Minister’s Address
In his remarks, the Minister stressed that preparing Zimbabwe’s next generation of innovative public servants begins with a strong commitment to excellence. He noted that universities function as hubs of thought leadership, while the PSC is the custodian of administrative professionalism—together forming a powerful partnership for national progress.
The Minister highlighted key areas of collaboration between Government, Solusi University and the PSC, including:
• Developing future-oriented training programmes
• Strengthening ethics and accountability in public administration
• Establishing innovation hubs and research centres
• Expanding internship and experiential learning opportunities in public institutions
He encouraged students to embrace innovation, integrity and patriotism, stating that “young people are not just preparing for the future—they are the future.” He urged them to actively shape Zimbabwe’s development with creativity and commitment.
Vice-Chancellor’s Remarks
Vice-Chancellor Prof Mpofu emphasized the importance of strong value systems, Ubuntu, technological adoption and global learning in shaping responsible, nation-building graduates.
He highlighted the success of Solusi University–PSC collaborations, including the graduation of 100 police officers from joint training programmes. He also commended the devolution agenda and acknowledged the university’s diverse international student community for enriching innovation and global perspectives.
Guest of Honour’s Speech
Representing the PSC Chairperson, Dr Ndiweni praised Solusi University for fostering an environment that produces graduates of integrity and purpose.
She outlined the PSC’s ongoing modernisation agenda, which aims to embed transparency, accountability and efficiency across the civil service through:
• Digital transformation and e-governance platforms
• Automated HR systems and online service portals
• Continuous capacity development programmes
• University-based innovation hubs
• Strengthened engagement with academia, the private sector and development partners
Dr Ndiweni reaffirmed the PSC’s constitutional mandate (Sections 202–203) to uphold professionalism, merit, fairness and ethics. She restated the Commission’s vision of “a high-performing public service” and its mission to drive responsive service delivery and national development.
In closing, she urged students to maintain high moral standards and acquire the competencies required to propel Zimbabwe into a modern, innovative and equitable future.
The Minister was accompanied by senior Government officials, including Mr R. Ncube (Director of Provincial Affairs and Devolution), Miss S. Ndlovu (Deputy Director of Provincial Coordination) and Miss S. Mabidi (Personal Assistant to the Minister).
Notable attendees included Solusi University Vice-Chancellor, Prof K. Mpofu; Public Service Commission (PSC) Secretary, Mrs S. Zembe; and PSC staff from Head Office and Matabeleland South Province led by Mr Serumula.
The Guest of Honour was the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, represented by the Vice-Chairperson, Dr Nomathemba Ndiweni.