Patience Muchemwa
Senior Reporter
The University of Zimbabwe, in collaboration with Renmin University of China, has launched the China-Africa Joint Research Centre for Exchanges and Mutual Learning between Civilisations. This initiative aims to deepen cooperation between China and Africa, fostering mutual understanding between two regions with rich histories and strong cultural ties.
"The centre cuts across all disciplines, identifying and investigating the problems and opportunities of the 21st century," said Dr. Laston Mukaro, a leading academic involved in the project.
"These challenges must be studied in the context of the unique endowments that China and Africa possess. Understanding our heritage is the only way we can innovate and industrialise our countries."
Dr. Mukaro emphasized that the academic exchange expected at the centre will play a vital role in Zimbabwe’s modernisation efforts, noting, "The academic osmosis here has the potential to significantly contribute to Zimbabwe’s development agenda."
The newly established research centre aims to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, technological advancement, and pandemics.
By leveraging the strengths of both regions, it will work towards practical solutions for African modernisation, particularly in Zimbabwe.
Chairman of the University Council of Renmin University of China, Zhang Donggang, said culture is an important spiritual link in connecting Chinese and African people.
"The dream of pursuing modernization together has become a common aspiration of the Chinese and African people," he said.
This ground breaking collaboration builds on a long history of Sino-African ties, tracing back to the 15th century when Chinese explorers like Zheng He established early trade routes with African states, including the Great Zimbabwe and Munhumutapa empires.
Today, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation embody the principles of shared prosperity, consultation, and collaboration, reinforcing China's commitment to Africa’s development.
This partnership also highlights the expanding role of the University of Zimbabwe in addressing global issues through academic collaboration.
The centre’s core objectives are clear: promoting academic research and innovation, facilitating intellectual exchange, and fostering cultural diplomacy.
Additionally, the centre will enhance scholarly mobility, bringing together experts to propose solutions to local and global challenges.
This initiative is a natural evolution of the University of Zimbabwe’s Confucius Institute, expanding its focus beyond language programs to embrace research and innovation.
By promoting student and staff exchanges, the centre fosters a deeper mutual understanding, helping both regions learn from each other’s rich civilisations.
The China-Africa Joint Research Centre serves as a platform for addressing shared global challenges while reinforcing the bonds between these two ancient civilisations, poised to play a key role in Africa's industrialisation and modernisation.
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