Zimbabwe Open University

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Zimbabwe Open University Learn while you Earn!!! It started off as an offshoot of the University of Zimbabwe and has since grown into a fully fledged University.

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is a unique institution of higher learning offering Open and Distance e-Learning to students in Zimbabwe, in the region and in the international arena. A Centre for Distance Education was established in 1993 by the University of Zimbabwe, in the Department of Educational Administration. This was in line with the Government's realisation, after independence, that the majority of the people in Zimbabwe was hungry for tertiary education and had missed the opportunity of going to college when they were still young, due to the colonial restrictions that had denied them the chance. The ZANU-PF Government, whose 1980 Election Manifesto made education a human right, facilitated the development of distance learning to accommodate those people who would not have been in a position to go to conventional, residential tertiary institutions for an education because of lack of sufficient funding and other commitments, for example, work commitments. In 1996, the Centre became the University College of Distance Education headed by Professor Graham Hill. Three years later, on 1st March 1999, through an Act of Parliament, the University College became the first open and distance learning University in Zimbabwe. The first Vice Chancellor for the University was Professor Peter Dzvimbo. Dr Kurasha took over as the head of the Zimbabwe Open University in 2003 and she made history by becoming the first female Vice Chancellor in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe Open University is a multi-disciplinary and inter-faculty institution of higher learning offering Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes. ZOU offers degree and non-degree programmes through distance teaching and open e-learning to youth and adult learners. With a combination of cutting edge technology, print materials and face-to face tuition, the Zimbabwe Open University provides knowledge, competencies and dispositions necessary for the development of competitive human capital. In a dynamic and fast changing global village, a philosophy of lifelong learning for social inclusion is our guiding beacon!

ZOU Showcases Innovation and Expands Student Engagement at Manicaland Agricultural ShowThe Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU...
03/10/2026

ZOU Showcases Innovation and Expands Student Engagement at Manicaland Agricultural Show

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is participating at the Manicaland Agricultural Show, being held from 1–3 October 2026, under the theme “Harnessing Agriculture for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development.”

ZOU is showcasing its academic programmes, innovations and institutional initiatives, providing an opportunity for visitors, farmers, business leaders, students and other stakeholders to interact with the University and learn more about its flexible and accessible learning opportunities.

The University is also exhibiting a range of innovations and research-driven solutions, demonstrating ZOU’s contribution to knowledge generation, skills development and national development.

Despite the persistent rains experienced during the show, the ZOU team remained committed to engaging visitors. The University successfully interacted with more than 200 prospective students who expressed interest in pursuing studies with ZOU for the January 2027 intake.

The strong interest reflects the growing demand for flexible higher education opportunities that enable learners to pursue their studies while managing work and other commitments.

Through participation at agricultural shows such as the Manicaland Agricultural Show, ZOU continues to strengthen its brand visibility, stakeholder engagement and student recruitment, while promoting the University's contribution to Zimbabwe's socio-economic development.

ZOU – Empowering Communities Through Flexible Open and Distance Learning.

ZOU Strengthens Operational Capacity with Handover of Five New VehiclesThe Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has taken a si...
01/10/2026

ZOU Strengthens Operational Capacity with Handover of Five New Vehicles

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its operational capacity with the official handover of five new vehicles at the University’s National Centre on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

The vehicles are expected to enhance the University’s ability to effectively support its operations across its ten Regional Centres, including examinations, tutorials, research supervision, outreach activities and other core institutional programmes.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Vice Chancellor Professor P. H. Gundani highlighted that four of the vehicles were purchased through funds raised from the disposal of the University’s old fleet, which generated approximately US$32,000, with the Bursary Department providing additional funding to meet the procurement costs.

The fifth vehicle was procured entirely through income generated from short courses and entrepreneurial initiatives by the Faculty of Education.

The Vice Chancellor commended the Faculty of Education for demonstrating how innovation and entrepreneurship can translate into tangible institutional assets, congratulating the Dean and the entire Faculty team.

“Innovation must create capacity. Those who generate resources will be prioritised for further institutional support,” Professor Gundani said.

He further challenged Faculties to develop market-driven programmes and short courses that contribute to the financial sustainability and growth of the University.

The four pool vehicles were formally handed over to the Registrar, Dr T. A. Kaseke, for allocation through the Transport and Logistics Unit, while the Faculty of Education vehicle was handed over to the Dean in recognition of the Faculty’s achievement.

The development marks another milestone in ZOU’s ongoing efforts to build a more entrepreneurial, innovative and self-reliant institution, while improving service delivery to students and stakeholders nationwide.

30/09/2026
ZOU Reaches Out to Kariba CommunitiesFollowing the tragic Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster on Lake Kariba, the Zimbabwe Open...
29/09/2026

ZOU Reaches Out to Kariba Communities

Following the tragic Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster on Lake Kariba, the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) team is in Kariba offering free counselling and psychosocial support to affected communities.

The team paid a courtesy call at the District Social Welfare Officers, as they prepare to visit affected homesteads.

Support will be available to those experiencing grief, trauma, stress, loss, and family or relationship challenges.

💙 ZOU stands with Kariba — offering care, comfort and hope when it matters most with Social Development Officer Mrs Sibindi.

For more information please contact the team leader Mrs Zebron on 0773920028

ZOU & The Salvation Army Strengthen PartnershipThe Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) and the Salvation Army Officer Trainin...
28/09/2026

ZOU & The Salvation Army Strengthen Partnership

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) and the Salvation Army Officer Training College (SAOTC) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen theological education and the academic formation of Christian leaders.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, ZOU Vice Chancellor, Professor P. H. Gundani, highlighted the importance of accessible and relevant theological education in preparing church leaders for contemporary society.

Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army Zimbabwe, Botswana and Madagascar Territory, Commissioner Daniel Kasuso, welcomed the partnership, noting that preparing Christian leaders for 21st-century ministry requires more than theological knowledge—it requires faith, knowledge, wisdom, competence and integrity.

Commissioner Kasuso described the agreement as an opportunity to strengthen the academic formation of Salvation Army ministers while preserving the spiritual and practical character of officership.

The partnership will also create opportunities for academic collaboration, resource sharing and institutional development, benefiting students, the two institutions and the communities they serve.

A new chapter in advancing education, Christian leadership and service. 🤝📚

Short courses on offered by the Faculty of Law. Certificate in Contract Management and Certificate in Compliance Reporti...
28/09/2026

Short courses on offered by the Faculty of Law. Certificate in Contract Management and Certificate in Compliance Reporting and Risk Management.

Day 3: Scholastica 2026 Education, Careers and Training Expo, ZICES Bulawayo
18/09/2026

Day 3: Scholastica 2026 Education, Careers and Training Expo, ZICES Bulawayo

Build Peace. Lead with Integrity. Promote Good Governance.Take the next step with ZOU’s Certificate in Peace, Leadership...
17/09/2026

Build Peace. Lead with Integrity. Promote Good Governance.

Take the next step with ZOU’s Certificate in Peace, Leadership and Governance — a 5-day blended training designed to empower leaders and change-makers.

Apply today and make a difference!

Address

Harare
CORNERHOUSE,CORNERLEOPARDTAKAWIRAANDSAMORAMACHAEL

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 16:00
Thursday 08:00 - 16:00
Friday 08:00 - 16:00

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