Harare, 5 August 2025 – In a resounding endorsement of its governance excellence, Midlands State University (MSU) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 4 August 2025 at the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development’s boardroom in Harare.
The meeting, conducted in strict compliance with the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act (Chapter 10:31) and the Midlands State University Act (25:21) as amended, underscored MSU’s unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and transformative leadership in higher education.
Presenting the 2024 Annual Report, Midlands State University, Vice Chancellor Professor V. N. Muzvidziwa announced a historic achievement: MSU’s inaugural ranking as the 18th best university in Sub-Saharan Africa by Times Higher Education.
“This recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of academic distinction and innovation,” he declared.
The Chairperson of Council, Mrs. M. E. Mwamuka, emphasised the University’s robust governance framework, highlighting the formulation of new policies and the exceptional performance of its committee system, which achieved 100% of planned sessions in almost all committees in 2024.
“Our governance structures are not just compliant—they are exemplary,” she affirmed.
The University Bursar, Mrs. S. Ncube, presented the financial statements, showcasing MSU’s disciplined fiscal management.
“We continue to align our resource allocation with the pillars of Education 5.0, ensuring that teaching, research, and innovation drive national development,” she stated.
Mr. T. Zishiri, the University Registrar, reinforced MSU’s culture of compliance, noting adherence to all regulatory requirements.
This was further validated by the Corporate Governance Unit through Mr. J. Wititi, which commended MSU for exceeding mandatory governance standards.
External auditors Bakertilly, represented by Mr. F. Nyagwaya, confirmed MSU’s clean, unmodified audit report, a rare feat in public sector accountability.
Mr. B. Dzumbunu of the Auditor General’s Office declared the financial statements a true and fair reflection of MSU’s standing.
The Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Dr. Ambassador F. M. M. Shava, lauded MSU for its world-class achievements, including being crowned world champions in the 17th Nelson Mandela Moot Court Competition.
“You have raised Zimbabwe’s flag high on the global stage,” he proclaimed, “the nation watches with pride and great expectation”.
Professor F. Tagwira, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, encapsulated the sentiment: “We are proud of what you’re doing as MSU—this is the gold standard in higher education.”
With its unqualified audit, global recognition, and commendable governance framework, Midlands State University stands as a beacon of excellence, proving that transparency and visionary leadership are the bedrock of transformative education.