Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) has partnered with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to host the ICT Research Symposium under the theme “Advancing Digital Transformation through Progressive ICT Research.” The two-day event, held from 14 to 15 October at the Great Zimbabwe Hotel, brings together academics, researchers, industry experts, and government officials to explore ICT solutions that support the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
GZU Vice Chancellor Professor Rungano Zvobgo praised the partnership, calling it a timely initiative in an increasingly digital world. He thanked participants for the strong turnout and said collaboration between academia and regulators was key to building a knowledge-based economy. Professor Sam Takavarasha, Editor-in-Chief and Chairperson of the POTRAZ ICT Research Journal, urged delegates to produce practical research that influences policy and drives innovation. He said the symposium should result in a journal rich in ideas that promote digital transformation.
POTRAZ Director General Dr Gift Calisto Machengete, the keynote speaker, said he was pleased to see academics, government, and industry working together to support national development. He encouraged quarterly publication of ICT journals and pledged continued POTRAZ support for such research efforts. Dr Machengete said ICT is now a necessity, not a luxury, and called for decisive action to strengthen the sector. He said the GZU–POTRAZ partnership should lead to innovations that directly benefit industry and society.
The symposium has drawn participants from universities, parastatals, local authorities, and research institutions committed to advancing Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda.