Position: Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Officer Holder: Mr. Wellington Chabata
Institution: Midlands State University (MSU)
Contacts: [email protected]
Overview
The Data Protection Officer (DPO) at Midlands State University ensures institutional compliance with the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] and its supporting statutory instruments. The DPO oversees data processing activities, conducts internal audits, and provides expert guidance on data protection policies to safeguard personal information.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary contact for data subjects regarding the processing of their personal data at MSU.
- Monitor and ensure adherence to data protection laws, including breach notifications and regulatory reporting to Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ).
- Advise university staff on data protection obligations, best practices, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Lead training initiatives to promote a culture of data security awareness across the institution.
- Handle data subject requests, including access, rectification, and erasure of personal data.
- Liaise with regulatory bodies and external stakeholders on compliance matters.
Importance of the Role
The DPO plays a critical role in maintaining stakeholder trust by upholding MSU’s commitment to privacy and the secure handling of personal identifiable information (PII). This position ensures alignment with legal requirements while fostering a robust data protection framework within the University.