Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development , Dr. Anxious Masuka
By Edward Makuzva
Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Online Agricultural College (ZOAC) celebrated a milestone achievement with the graduation of its inaugural class, comprising 46 pioneering agricultural leaders.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony in the capital, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development , Dr. Anxious Masuka added that ZOAC has made significant strides in expanding agricultural education, leveraging ICT to reach farmers and stakeholders nationwide. The college offered two transformative programs: the Executive Certificate in Agricultural Business Management and the General Certificate in Agricultural Business Management.
“We offered two transformative programs: The Executive Certificate in Agricultural Business Management and the General Certificate in Agricultural Business Management.
“These programs, meticulously designed to equip our students with the skills and knowledge to transform their agricultural enterprises into thriving businesses, have borne exceptional fruit.I have no doubt that these programmes will contribute to the Agriculture sectors transformation agenda as we implement the Agriculture ,Food systems and Rural Transformation strategy and the Rural Development 8.0 programme.
“Just a year ago, on the 2nd of August 2023, the Zimbabwe Online Agricultural College embarked on its maiden voyage. Driven by the noble vision of expanding the reach of Agricultural Education for Development 5.0, we harnessed the power of ICT to bring agricultural knowledge to farmers and stakeholders across the nation, transcending geographical barriers and limitations”,
Dr Masuka explained.
He said the 46 graduates, who achieved a 100% pass rate, demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience throughout their studies. They applied theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through on-farm projects and showcased practical skills through innovative online demonstrations.
Dr Masuka highlighted that these graduates are the pioneers, the trailblazers who have embraced innovation and paved the way for future generations of agricultural leaders.
“You are not just graduates of the Zimbabwe Online Agricultural College; you are ambassadors of innovation, agents of change, and the future of Zimbabwean agriculture.
They have also showcased their practical skills through innovative online demonstrations, utilizing digital tools and platforms to address real-world challenges.
“Our 46 graduates, 33 from the Executive Certificate program and 13 from the General Certificate program, have not only successfully completed their studies with an outstanding 100% pass rate, but they have also embodied the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines our institution.
“These graduates, despite the unique challenges of remote learning, have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their education.
“They have embraced cutting-edge technology, delved into the intricacies of agricultural engineering, agribusiness, farm management, crop production, and animal production, emerging as well-rounded professionals ready to contribute to the growth of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector”, Dr Masuka explained.
He reaveled that their achievements extend beyond academic excellence. In line with the principles of Education 5.0, our students have actively engaged in on-farm projects, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and making tangible contributions to their local agricultural communities.
Meanwhile, graduates were urged to utilize their knowledge and skills to contribute to Zimbabwe’s agricultural growth, embracing innovation and paving the way for future generations.
