Africa University’s College of Social Sciences, Theology, Humanities and Education, in collaboration with the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), recently convened a high-impact half-day Conference on Broadcasting Policy, Regulation and Innovation, underscoring the critical need to align broadcasting policy with emerging technologies.
Participants comprising students from the various colleges, including the School of Law, academic faculty and industry thought-leaders engaged deeply with the regulatory landscape, gaining insights into the critical role of BAZ in managing the country’s broadcasting spectrum. Discussions unpacked key legal frameworks, compliance requirements, and the rapidly shifting terrain of digital broadcasting.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Engineer Talon Garikayi set the tone with a compelling call to action. He emphasized that the platform was a strategic forum meant to shape the future of Zimbabwe’s communications ecosystem. He also noted that the gathering comes at a pivotal moment as Africa University accelerates plans to launch its very own campus radio station, an initiative poised to amplify student voices, foster innovation, and bridge academia with industry.
Equipping Students for Creative Industries
“This conference is especially significant for our students in several ways,” he said.
“For our media students, it provides valuable insights into content standards and innovation, equipping them to actively shape the creative industries they aspire to join.
Our law students deepen their understanding of the Broadcasting Services Act, licensing frameworks, and compliance requirements—critical knowledge for those who will one day advise, legislate, or adjudicate in this field.
Students in ICT explore the technical dimensions of digital migration, including spectrum planning and emerging broadcast technologies, preparing them to become innovators in the digital era.
Our international relations students gain an appreciation of how broadcasting policy intersects with diplomacy, governance, and global communication standards.
Finally, for our theology students, the conference offers an opportunity to reflect on the ethical and moral dimensions of broadcasting—how media can promote values, shape public morality, and contribute to the spiritual and cultural development of society,” Prof. Eng. Garikayi noted.
The students participation reinforced Africa University’s commitment to producing industry-ready leaders equipped to lead in complex, evolving sectors across the continent.
Forward Looking will Change the World
Delivering a forward-looking perspective, BAZ Principal Officer, Engineer Bryan Mangena highlighted the Authority’s commitment to innovation. He noted that the institution is actively “embracing new technologies to strengthen Zimbabwe’s broadcasting industry—ensuring it remains inclusive, competitive, and aligned with national priorities such as Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.”
This latest industry–academia collaboration aligns with Africa University’s strategic goal of forging meaningful partnerships and creating platforms that influence policy, industry, and society. It also comes at a time when the University is training a cohort of United Methodist communicators from across the continent in Strategic Communication. As the institution continues to expand its footprint in media and communications, it sends a clear message: the future of broadcasting in Zimbabwe and the continent is not only being discussed, but actively being shaped at the School of Dreams in the Valley of Hope.
Your Generous Support Helps Educate Africa
By supporting the Africa University Fund apportionment, you help provide financial support for the general operating expenses of Africa University. This university helps empower students from across the continent of Africa to give back to their individual countries on their return home. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
excerpt from a story by Christine Mbotshani, Africa University
This story shows the impact of the Africa University Fund—one of seven apportionment funds of The United Methodist Church—to equip new generations of leaders for the African continent. Your church’s giving supports Africa University in Zimbabwe, where students from across Africa receive higher education rooted in faith, excellence, and service. Together, we help shape leaders who transform their nations and communities.
When your church supports the Africa University Fund, you empower students to become changemakers grounded in hope and faith.
