Master of Philosophy Opportunity: Farmer-led research, marketing and nutrition.

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) seeks a suitably qualified scholar to join a dynamic team of researchers in the Research for Agroecology Network for Southern Africa (RAENS) project, to explore agroecological transitions in the region. Within the broad framework of the RAENS project (funded by the European Union, coordinated by CCARDESA, led by University of Cape Town (UCT) and implemented by a consortium of 8 local, regional and international organisations), agroecology markets (AE) are recognised as a central component to agroecological transitions in the region. Yet, there is little understanding of where and how these markets are currently structured function, and perform since this is an emerging sector. There is, thus, need for a situational analysis of AE markets as part of a key piece to the development of AE. Farmers, (especially women), can play a crucial role through farmer led research, in the co-generation of knowledge related to AE markets.

MUAST, in liaison with the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), is inviting a highly motivated student to conduct a study on the use of farmer led research to undertake a governance analysis of AE markets in Zimbabwe within the RAENS project framework. The research may also assess farmers' practices and consumer preferences to nutrition-sensitive agroecology practices in the target Wards in Zimbabwe for the RAENS project. The student will also play an important role in piloting of innovations in dissemination of findings and lessons from the study.
The position is funded under the RAENS project. The goal of the RAENS project is to establish a robust, innovative and sustainable multi-sector transdisciplinary agroecology research and knowledge network in Southern Africa.

Qualification and desired attributes of the prospective student:

• BSc in Marketing, Nutrition, Natural Resources, Development Studies, Sociology or other relevant sciences
• Willingness to work with farmers in rural areas and stakeholders in urban and peri-urban settings
• Highly motivated, self-starter
• The candidate is expected to participate in RAENS activities, including attending national and regional workshops as may be needed
• Have an interest in inter- and transdisciplinarity
• Strong presentation and communication skills
• Computer literacy, and ability to use common analytical packages
• Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply
• Applicant must be ready to start by the 1st of October 2025.

Scholarship Details:

• The scholarship will cover a subsistence allowance and research expenses for 30 months.
• The student is expected to undertake field work in the RAENS districts of Marondera, Mudzi, Chimanimani and Nyanga.

Application: including a cover (motivation) letter, CV, Academic transcript as well as the names and particulars of two traceable referees should be submitted to:

Dr W. Kozanayi (wkozanayi@muast.ac.zw)
cc Dr. E.N. Masvaya (enmasvaya@muast.ac.zw)
Deadline: 23 September 2025

The successful applicant will need to apply separately for MPhil study to the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management, MUAST. The scholarship is subject to acceptance of the candidate for MPhil study at MUAST

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted*

Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) opportunity Smallholder Livestock Green House Gas Emissions in Zimbabwe

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST), through the Research for Agroecology Network in Southern Africa (RAENS) project, invites applications for a fully funded PhD (DPhil) position focused on: Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Smallholder Livestock Farming Communities in Zimbabwe. The RAENS project seeks to establish a robust, innovative, and sustainable transdisciplinary agroecology research and knowledge network across Southern Africa. The successful candidate will conduct field-based research on greenhouse gas emissions from livestock systems in selected smallholder communities.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Master's degree (MSc or MPhil) in Animal Science, Veterinary Science or other relevant sciences
• Demonstrate a strong academic and research background (e.g. peer-reviewed publications, research projects, conference participation)
• Be willing to work closely with smallholder farmers in rural Zimbabwe
• Possess strong analytical, conceptual and self-management skills
• The candidate is expected to participate in RAENS activities, including attending national and regional workshops as may be needed
• Have an interest in inter- and transdisciplinarity
• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
• Be available to commence studies by end of October 2025

Scholarship details:

• The scholarship will cover a subsistence allowance and research expenses for 42 months
• The research sites will be Marondera, Mudzi, Nyanga and Chimanimani districts.
• Participation in RAENS activities is expected.

The application should consist of:

• A motivational letter explaining your suitability as a candidate
• A detailed Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Certified copies of Academic Degrees and transcripts (certified translation if necessary)
• A short DPhil research proposal (maximum 5 pages) aligned with the scholarship focus
• An example of recent written work (e.g. publication, research report)
• Names and particulars of two traceable referees

Applications: should be submitted to:

Dr N. Chikumba (nchikumba@muast.ac.zw)
cc Dr W. Kozanayi (wkozanayi@muast.ac.zw)
Deadline: 30 September 2025

Please note: Final admission to the PhD programme at MUAST is a separate requirement and is subject to university approval.

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted*

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) hosted its inaugural Innovation Fair on 19 September 2025 under the theme, 'Fostering Innovation and Industrialisation in an Agro-based Economy.' The event was graced by Mr. Christopher Mwerenga, Finance Director of EmpowerBank, as Guest of Honour. A significant milestone of the day was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between MUAST and EmpowerBank. The MOU will pave way for students to transform their innovative ideas into viable business ventures. In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of MUAST, Professor Justice Nyamangara, encouraged the young participants, stating: "To our young innovators, I hope today's fair inspires you. You are the future leaders and problem-solvers who will drive our nation forward."

The Fair's highlight were the pitching and hackathon competitions which drew participation from high schools, tertiary institutions, and community innovators. Dura Hub emerged victorious in the overall pitching competition, clinching first place, followed by Easy Meal in second place and Green Community in third. In the high school hackathon category, Wise Owl High School claimed first place, with Bernard Mizeki College taking the second prize. The tertiary category saw Murimi Mukuru secure the top position, while Visit 263 came second. In the community category, Zviyo Crunch took first place, earning a trophy and a certificate, while Tamarind Cyder came in second, receiving a shield and a certificate

The overall winners of the Innovation Fair were recognized for their exceptional contributions:

• 1st prize: Murimi Mukuru - trophy, certificate, and USD 200.00
• 2nd prize: Zviyo Crunch - shield, certificate, and USD 150.00
• 3rd prize - Dura Hub - shield, certificate, and USD 100.00

All the participants and organisers were applauded for making the inaugural MUAST Innovation Fair a resounding success.