Source: Govt hails Indian scholarship programme – herald
Obey Musiwa-Herald Reporter
INDIA’s expanded scholarship programme has been hailed by the Government as a critical boost to the country’s human capital development.
The initiative will empower young scholars to drive innovation and industrialisation in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics fields.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony of 20 students in Harare yesterday, Permanent Secretary for Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Professor Fanuel Tagwira emphasised the enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and India.
He said the scholarships would not only transform individual lives, but also strengthen national development strategy and global competitiveness.
“You cannot talk about innovation and not talk about India; it is one of the most innovative countries I have had to visit,” he said.
“Another very important thing I observed is the number of young ladies pursuing STEM.”
Prof Tagwira said the scholarships align with the country’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 framework, which seeks to produce graduates capable of generating goods and services that address socio-economic challenges.
India’s innovation culture offers valuable lessons for Zimbabwe’s industrialisation journey.
In his remarks, Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Bramha Kumar said India had doubled the number of Maitri Scholarship slots to 20 for the 2026-2027 academic session, alongside additional opportunities under the STEM and AYUSH scholarship schemes.
He said the scholarships were fully funded, covering tuition, accommodation, travel and medical insurance, to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder academic performance.
“As you travel to India, you will become part of one of the world’s oldest civilisations and one of its fastest-growing economies,” Ambassador Kumar said.
“Your conduct will shape how others perceive Zimbabwe”.
Zimbabwe and India enjoy cordial relations. The two countries collaborate in a number of fields.
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