My name is Shelter Kazangarare. I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Crop Production and Technology from Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in November 2025.

My journey at the university was life-changing both academically and personally. Through the program, I gained practical agricultural knowledge, research skills, leadership abilities, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector. The experience taught me discipline, resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving, especially during field practicals, research activities, and interactions with different stakeholders in agriculture.

Studying at Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology broadened my understanding of sustainable agriculture and inspired me to pursue excellence in my career. The knowledge and skills I acquired have positively shaped my professional journey.

Currently, I am working under the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development at the Plant Quarantine Services Institute as an Acting Chief Plant Health Inspector. My role involves monitoring and managing Plant Health Inspection programmes and ensuring compliance with national and international phytosanitary regulations. I am grateful for the opportunities, growth, and strong foundation that the university provided, which continue to guide me in my professional career.

Shelter Kazangarare
Acting Chief Plant Health Inspector, Plant Quarantine Services Institute
Class of 2025, BSc Crop Production and Technology

To the students of Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, to my fellow environmental stewards: I once sat in those same lecture halls, walked that same pathways between the lecture blocks on that campus, and dreamed the same big dreams you have today.

The Faculty of Environment didn't just teach me about ecosystems, conservation, and sustainable development. It taught me that we are custodians, not just graduates. It gave me roots and wings. Roots to remember where I came from, and wings to chase what God has called me to. The late nights, the assignments, the friendships, and even the challenges were all shaping me for the person I am now. The field trips, and our research projects were preparing us to heal, protect, and nurture Zimbabwe's natural heritage.

As you step into Climate Science, natural resources management, or environmental planning, just remember this: don't just study environment but fight for it, restore it and help communities thrive with it not apart from it. Our rivers, soils, wildlife, and people are counting on your knowledge. Whatever field you're in, don't just aim to get a job. Aim to serve, to build, and to leave every place better than you found it. Zimbabwe needs your ideas, your integrity, and your courage.

You are not just students. You're the next rangers, policymakers, researchers, green innovators Zimbabwe needs, while some can even be farmers, innovators, teachers, and leaders our nation is waiting for.

Stay grounded, stay bold. Stay humble. Work hard. Nurture others. And never forget: “Kudzidza hakuperi” — learning never ends.

Proud to be MUAST, Proud to be Faculty of Environment. Proud of you.

Maradzika Challenge Farasten
Class of 2023, BSc Natural Resources Management

I am Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology alumnus Malcolm Tinashe Chipungare, a proud graduate of the Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Development Science and Policy, Class of 2025. My journey reflects a deep commitment to community development and youth empowerment. For me, MUAST was more than just an academic institution; it was a home that nurtured my vision, values, and sense of purpose.

During my time at MUAST, I built a strong foundation in policy, development practice, and community engagement. The experience not only shaped my academic growth but also strengthened my passion for driving meaningful change in society.

Today, I serve as the Programs Manager at PaHukama National Youth Oryxes Foundation, where I design and implement initiatives that empower young people and uplift communities. My work focuses on creating opportunities, fostering resilience, and building sustainable futures for the youth.

“MUAST was not just a university to me—it was home. The knowledge, experiences, and values I gained continue to guide me every day. From the lecture halls to the field, the mission remains the same: to empower, uplift, and build.”

Malcolm Tinashe Chipungare
Programs Manager, PaHukama National Youth Oryxes Foundation
Class of 2025, BSc (Hons) Development Science and Policy

As an alumnus of Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST), I want to encourage you to embrace the journey of research and discovery with courage and curiosity. I graduated from MUAST in 2022 with a BSc Honours in Agronomy—my own path to the M.Sc. Boreal Ecosystems and Agricultural Sciences programme in Canada has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.

This journey has taken me from provincial agricultural symposiums to the global stage at the Soils for Our Future conference. Each experience has reminded me that science is not just about data—it's about people, communities, and the land we depend on.

Relocating from Zimbabwe to Newfoundland was challenging—initially, the weather was pleasant, but then winter arrived, bringing the coldest conditions with wind, snow, and rain. The cost of living is high, and the pace of learning is quick, involving lectures, labs, and fieldwork. However, with the support of my research group, my supervisor, Dr. Yeukai Katanda, and the welcoming community and church, I found resilience and strength. These challenges helped me become a better researcher and a stronger person.

To my fellow academics and future leaders, embrace the challenges; they will refine your character. Value collaborations; they will deepen your knowledge as you share with others. Stay curious and persistent—your work can transform communities and ecosystems.

Remember, the journey of research is not just about academic achievement; it is about contributing to a better future for our planet.

With encouragement,

Kelvin Geza

My passion for agriculture began in my youth, leading to a role as an agronomist trainee at CP Chemical Pvt Ltd in 2017. This inspired me to pursue a BSc Honors degree in Agronomy at MUAST, which I completed in 2023. Despite challenges, I excelled with support from excellent lecturers. CP Chemicals recognized my skills, promoting me to full-time agronomist and later branch manager in Karoi. Three years later, I transferred to our new branch in Chinhoyi. My time at MUAST was truly rewarding.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Animal Science and Technology from MUAST in December 2023, I have secured employment as a Swine Technician at Livingstone Enterprise Inc, a commercial pig producer with 35000 pigs located in Fairbury, Nebraska, USA. Ever since I secured my employment in April 2024, I have been applying the knowledge and skills I have gained at MUAST, thereby contributing to the success of the pig production operations. I am glowing here in the States because of MUAST's excellent education.

I graduated with a BSc Honours in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology Degree from MUAST in 2023. After graduation, I assumed the role of Agronomy Graduate Trainee at CP Chemicals Pvt Ltd for 1 year and now I am an Agronomist at the Karoi Branch with a nomination as the Branch Supervisor. I have been involved in writing articles and have published in the Farmers Guide Magazine of 2025 and also wrote in a Scoping review protocol with the title "How do neglected and underutilized crops (NUCS) in Africa contribute to food security, nutrition and climate change outcomes." All this has been made possible with the skills and knowledge that have been imparted to me by the support and assistance from the MUAST team and CP Chemicals.