Kenyan national Mageto new AU Vice-Chancellor

Zim Now Writer

Kenyan national Peter Mageto is the new Vice-Chancellor for the Mutare-based Africa University, one of the few private institutions offering tertiary education in Zimbabwe.

AU’s fifth vice-chancellor since its inception in 1994, Mageto, who occupied the post in an acting capacity since the death of Munashe Furusa in January 2021, becomes the first non-Zimbabwean to occupy the key post.

In his maiden speech, Mageto lauded government for allowing the establishment of private universities in the country, saying it ensured that most Zimbabweans and those outside the country realise their higher education dreams.

He said: “We thank the government of Zimbabwe for permitting the university to operate because the dream could not have been achieved if the government did not allow the university to get a place for construction. What I know about the 30 years of AU existence is about our Lord Jesus Christ who began his ministry at 30. The 30th anniversary, therefore, means the beginning of a new ministry at the university.”

Mageto promised to bring glory to the AU, which boasts over 10 000 alumni and over US$1,3 million in scholarships annually.

He said the university was rated among the best in Zimbabwe and Africa, saying AU continued to ride between the top three universities in Zimbabwe and among the top 100 universities in Africa.

The new VC promised to establish a college of engineering as part of efforts to complement innovation in higher education.

Speaking at the same occasion, academic Michael Ugwueke, who was the guest of honour, said Africa was still lagging behind with under 6 percent students accessing higher education.

“For example, there are 740 universities in Africa enrolling 660 million students. About 6% of children in Africa south of the Sahara will enrol for higher education, and that must change because compared to America, a good number enrols at the universities. We envision that in 30 years, AU will lead in virtual learning and engage in partnership with other universities,” he said.

Higher and Tertiary Education minister Amon Murwira, in a speech read on his behalf, praised Mageto as a man of unquestionable character and ability.

“The government fully stands with the AU, which is a best example of private higher education in Africa. This institution has changed many lives and most graduates from the university are occupying leadership positions across the globe,” he said.

The first AU vice-chancellor John Kurewa was inaugurated in 1994 with 28 students receiving their first degrees from the institution.

He was succeeded by Rukudzo Murapa, Fanuel Tagwira and Furusa.

AU is one of the seven universities in the country, which include the

Arrupe Jesuit University, Catholic University in Zimbabwe (CUZ), Reformed Church University, Solusi University, Women's University in Africa (WUA) and the Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU).