Gwanda State University (GSU) vice-chancellor, Doreen Zandile Moyo, has been honoured with a Zimbabwe Women Excellence Award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to higher and tertiary education and her transformative leadership in Zimbabwe’s academic sector.

The prestigious award was presented at the Zimbabwe Women Excellence Awards, held under the patronage of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and service have significantly contributed to national development.

Moyo was recognised for her exceptional leadership at Gwanda State University, where she has spearheaded institutional growth, academic excellence, research advancement and innovation since assuming office as vice-chancellor in 2021.

An accomplished animal parasitologist and seasoned academic, Moyo has built an illustrious career spanning more than three decades in higher education.

Prior to her appointment at GSU, she served as pro vice-chancellor responsible for research and academic affairs at Midlands State University.

In a statement, GSU congratulated Moyo on the achievement, describing the award as a well-deserved recognition of her commitment to advancing education and empowering communities through knowledge and innovation.

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“The university community is immensely proud of Professor Doreen Zandile Moyo for receiving the Zimbabwe Women Excellence Award,” the university said.

“This honour is a testament to her visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her remarkable contribution to the development of higher and tertiary education in Zimbabwe.”

GSU noted that under Moyo’s stewardship, the institution has continued to register significant milestones in teaching, research, innovation and infrastructure development.

“Since assuming office as vice-chancellor, Professor Moyo has championed initiatives that have strengthened the university’s academic programmes, enhanced research output and positioned Gwanda State University as a key player in driving innovation and national development,” the statement read.

“Her leadership continues to inspire staff, students and stakeholders alike.”

The university further said the recognition reflects not only Moyo’s personal achievements, but also the collective efforts of the institution in fulfilling its mandate of producing graduates equipped to contribute to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation.

“This award serves as an inspiration to young women and future leaders across the country,” GSU added.

“It demonstrates that through hard work, resilience and commitment to excellence, women can continue to break barriers and make meaningful contributions in academia, science, leadership and national development.”

The Zimbabwe Women Excellence Awards recognise outstanding women across diverse sectors including education, governance, business, law, tourism, science and community development.

The awards seek to celebrate individuals whose work aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations.