Midlands State University (MSU), through its Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Management, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ekukhanyeni Nutrition Garden to strengthen community development through knowledge exchange and agricultural innovation at the Gweru Main Campus on 09 November 2026.

Located in Lower Gweru, Ekukhanyeni Nutrition Garden is a community-based agricultural initiative established in 1993 to improve household food security through vegetable production.

In his welcome remarks, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Management, Professor C. Parwada, framed the MoU as the genesis of an important journey for both institutions by providing a practical learning environment where students can apply classroom knowledge to real-life agricultural practices and creating opportunities for research and innovation.

“Universities have a responsibility to ensure that the knowledge and expertise generated within their institutions benefit surrounding communities,” said Professor Parwada.

The University, through the Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Management, has been providing technical expertise and practical agricultural knowledge to Ekukhanyeni Nutrition Garden, supporting the adoption of improved agronomic practices and sustainable production methods, strengthening the garden’s capacity to transition from subsistence production to commercial horticulture.

In her remarks, Chairperson of Ekukhanyeni Nutrition Garden, Ms. S. Msipa, traced the garden’s journey from its humble beginnings, when members cultivated crops in an open space, to embracing improved agricultural technologies, including greenhouse production, before the University came on board to provide technical expertise and training.

“When we received knowledge from MSU, we gained an understanding of the best agronomic practices and received training, which resulted in increased yields; the University also taught us how to commercialise our products, and we are grateful for its support,” said Ms Msipa.

The climax of the ceremony was marked by the signing of the MoU, ushering in a new chapter of collaboration and shared commitment to community empowerment, with the University Registrar, Dr. T. Zishiri, representing MSU, while Ms. S. Msipa signed on behalf of Ekukhanyeni Nutrition Garden.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Lecturer in the Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Management, Mr. M. Kunaka, encouraged the parties to translate the signed document into measurable field interventions.

The MoU demonstrates the University’s commitment to community empowerment by extending academic knowledge beyond the classroom.