Lupane State University's Bigwa Icotourism Innovation Hub answers President's call for practical education
Lupane State University's Bigwa Ecotourism Innovation Hub is nearing completion in Matetsi, approximately 45 kilometres from Hwange. Strategically located within a buffer zone between Hwange National Park and surrounding communities such as Village 55, the hub is set to become a centre of excellence for innovation, research, tourism, and community development. The project directly responds to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's call for an inclusive education system that transitions tertiary institutions from purely academic learning to practical, skills-based training.
Supporting Zimbabwe's tourism growth agenda: The Bigwa Ecotourism Innovation Hub is expected to contribute significantly to Zimbabwe's tourism sector by supporting the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority's vision of achieving 20,000 tourism accommodation rooms nationwide. The facility initially has 12 traditional-style rondavels capable of accommodating at least 30 visitors, providing quality lodging while enhancing tourism opportunities within the Matetsi area. Beyond tourism, the hub will serve as an important research, teaching and learning centre for Lupane State University and the nation at large. Students, academics and researchers will have access to a practical environment where knowledge generation, innovation and hands-on learning can be integrated with real-world conservation and tourism activities.
Creating employment and enhancing community livelihoods: The innovation hub is poised to create employment opportunities for local communities through tourism-related services such as accommodation, guiding and hunting activities. By generating economic opportunities within the area, the project is expected to improve livelihoods while promoting sustainable use of natural resources. The hub reflects Government's commitment to inclusivity by actively involving surrounding communities in development processes. Through training, employment and participation in tourism-related enterprises, local residents will become key stakeholders in the success of the project, ensuring that development benefits are shared broadly and sustainably.
Reducing human-wildlife conflict: The location of the Bigwa Ecotourism Innovation Hub within the buffer zone between communities and wildlife areas also supports efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict. Through research, community engagement and sustainable land-use initiatives, the hub is expected to contribute to improved coexistence between people and wildlife, while promoting conservation and community safety.
A model for practical tertiary education: As completion draws closer, the Bigwa Ecotourism Innovation Hub stands as a practical demonstration of how higher and tertiary education institutions can drive national development. By combining education, research, tourism, community empowerment and conservation, the project embodies the Government's vision of a modern, inclusive and skills-oriented education system that delivers tangible benefits to communities and the economy.
#EDworks
#Education5.0
#Vision2030AReality