26/09/2026
Professor Manyanga Honoured at Farewell Ceremony
Great Zimbabwe University bid farewell to Professor Munyaradzi Manyanga, who is leaving the University after seven years of dedicated service as Executive Dean of the Robert Mugabe School of Heritage and Education.
The farewell ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate and honour a distinguished academic and leader whose tenure was characterised by patience, wisdom, professionalism and a strong commitment to the growth of the School and the University.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Manyanga reflected on his journey at Great Zimbabwe University with gratitude, noting that the University had provided him with opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
His tenure as Executive Dean came at a challenging period, particularly during the merger of the School of Arts and the School of Education. Despite the turbulence and diverse views surrounding the transition, Professor Manyanga remained firm and guided the School towards stability, growth and excellence.
His contribution also extended to several institutional initiatives, including online conferences, work undertaken through the Innovation Centre of Excellency for Dryland Agriculture (ICEDA), and documentary productions, among other achievements.
The Registrar, Dr Sinikiwe Gwatidzo, described Professor Manyanga as a selfless individual whose talent, knowledge and experience had made a significant contribution to the growth of the University.
The Vice Chancellor Professor Rungano Zvobgo also paid tribute to Professor Manyanga, describing him as “a gem” and acknowledging the significant contribution he had made to the University.
Reflecting on his career, Professor Manyanga said his journey had begun as a lecturer before he moved into University administration, where he served for seven years in a senior leadership role. He acknowledged that heading academics was never easy, given the diversity of ideas, personalities and expectations within the University.
“Mentoring was never easy, but we worked together. It was a very demanding position,” he said.
Professor Manyanga also expressed appreciation for the support he received from University management throughout his tenure.
He noted that Great Zimbabwe University had given him valuable opportunities to broaden his horizons.
“I have gratitude, and it is something I have and need to mention. GZU allowed me to grow,” he said, adding that it had been a privilege to work with the Vice Chancellor in his capacity as Pro-Vice Chancellor, an experience which broadened his professional opportunities.
As he begins a new chapter, Professor Manyanga is set to join Midlands State University (MSU) as a Research Professor at national level, where he will continue contributing to academia, research and knowledge development.
Great Zimbabwe University celebrates Professor Manyanga's contribution and wishes him success in his new chapter.
