Executive Director Statement

At Midlands State University, research, innovation, and the commercialisation of intellectual property (IP) stand as pillars of our commitment to academic excellence and national development. As a leading institution of higher learning, we recognise that meaningful research must not only generate new knowledge but also drive innovation, fuel economic growth, and provide sustainable solutions to real-world challenges. As such, innovation is the cornerstone of progress, and at MSU, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where researchers and students can think creatively, collaborate across disciplines, and develop cutting-edge technologies. Our research efforts must not end in publications alone; they must translate into impactful solutions that addresses challenges faced by our society.

To maximise the impact of our research, intellectual property protection and commercialisation are crucial. By securing patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of IP rights, we safeguard our innovations while creating pathways for their transformation into marketable products and services. Technology transfer and entrepreneurship are key to ensuring that our discoveries contribute to the socio-economic development of Zimbabwe and beyond.

To drive this agenda forward, MSU is committed to: Enhancing research and innovation support through funding, infrastructure, and mentorship. Promoting industry partnerships to facilitate the commercialisation of research outputs. Encouraging technology transfer and entrepreneurship among students and faculty. Upholding ethical and responsible research practices to ensure our work has a lasting positive impact. As MSU continues to position itself as a hub of research excellence and innovation, I urge all scholars, researchers, and industry partners to actively engage in this transformative journey. Together, we can propel MSU to greater heights, ensuring that our intellectual contributions drive sustainable development and global competitiveness.