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Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe is set to hold the 12th International Research Symposium (ZIRS) in February next year aimed at showcasing latest scientific research results, networking and creating smart partnerships, the Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ) has announced.

The symposium will be held from February 13 to 15 in Harare under the theme: “The Nexus between research and industry: Key to innovation and sustainable development.”

Addressing a press conference in Harare last week, RCZ executive director Mrs Susan Mutize said the other benefits of ZIRS was to meet face to face with experts from various disciplines and identify new areas of cooperation.

“The symposia are also a platform for identifying gaps and challenges faced by sectors in the development of targeted and evidence-based strategies. Young researchers may get career guidance.

“Authors benefit from publication of their papers in the renowned ZIRS Book of Papers presented, referred and edited to international standards.

“The primary objectives of the symposia are to popularise research and development to provide a platform for the dissemination and documentation of that research,” she said.

Mrs Mutize said young scientists from primary and secondary schools will also have an opportunity to display their research.
She said outstanding young scientists, students, individuals, companies and teams who are excelling in research will be acknowledged and given awards.

She said next year’s theme was motivated by the policy direction of President Mnangagwa on strengthening linkages between academia and industry for economic growth.

The pronouncement was made during his meeting with Vice-Chancellors on January 9 this year.
President Mnangagwa was quoted saying: “Research must not be an end in itself or remain in archived journals, thesis and documentaries in our libraries. It must speak to our problems, be relevant, usable, practical and transform our lives and advance our economic development.”

Mrs Mutize said next year’s symposium was to open to policy makers, captains of industry and commerce, entrepreneurs, NGOs, funders of research, media and students.

She said during the 11th ZIRS some institutions were represented from countries which include Botswana, Zambia, India, Namibia, South Africa and the United States.