Staff Reporter

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for Government bodies and research institutions to utilize the outcomes of innovative research, integrating them into industries for enhanced productivity.

While addressing a meeting comprising representatives from top research entities, educational establishments, and high-ranking governmental officials yesterday, President Mnangagwa challenged, “ The Research Council of Zimbabwe and all stakeholders in the research and innovation space, to be engaged in transformative research that improve resilience among our communities and a higher quality of life for our people.”

He further remarked on the urgency of aligning research topics with the country's immediate requirements and developmental objectives.

“Gone are the days where researchers would research about ‘why grasshoppers freeze in the winter’. Research must be correctly contextualized into our present national needs, realities and development priorities,” said the President.

President Mnangagwa also extolled the benefits of forming collaborations and partnerships with esteemed global and regional organizations.

“Partnerships and synergies with other regional and global professional bodies and centres of excellence are equally encouraged to enhance your work. Scientific enquiry across priority areas such as agriculture, mining, healthcare, nutrition, transport, safety and security as well as climate change and space science, among other fields are welcome,” added the President.

Highlighting the evolution in the realm of research and innovation, the President urged the Research Council of Zimbabwe to revitalize its role as a leading institution.

 “As the adage goes ‘Njere moto dzinogokwa’, I, therefore, urge you to seek knowledge from your peers, other institutions and communities, as well as progressive jurisdictions and cultures to master technologies, while adapting them to our local conditions,” said the President.

President Mnangagwa also emphasised the need for a symbiotic relationship between industry and research, stating, “Sustained linkages amongst stakeholders, including research and industry also ensure the continuation of the culture of innovation and learning.”

He concluded by underlining the importance of creating a balance between external viewpoints and our indigenous scientific approaches.