Africa University i5Hub dispels myths and misconceptions of innovation through community building and raising awareness

18 March 2022

The Africa University i5Hub led by Acting Manager Ms. Blessing Gavaza,  hosted a community and team building event that was aimed at demystifying and dispelling common misconceptions of innovation, with the predominant view being that it is the preserve of the scientific world. Collaboration, exploring  areas of opportunity and camaraderie were encouraged through various team building exercises and games, that brought on board diverse teams comprised of staff and students engaged in friendly competition.

Opening the event, Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Mageto  alluded to the importance of innovation to the development trajectory of the continent, encouraging both staff and students to inculcate problem- solving, cooperation and creativity to drive and create solutions.

This event is the first of its kind and we are proud to be part of this journey especially as we commemorate 30 years of existence. Everyone is an innovator and this event sets out to demystify and illuminate the collaboration, team work and ideation that goes into the development of game- changing projects and solution identification. We are eager to empower our youth to push the continent forward in innovation and catch up to the trends obtaining around the world.

Michael Chingono, an intern in the i5Hub and a third year Computer Information Systems student was pleased with the turnout at the event expressing his appreciation to the university executive for its support for such initiatives, as well as the willingness of the community to keep learning and pushing boundaries. He said,

The i5Hub is not just a place but it is a network of entrepreneurs so seeing people dismantle their walls , interact and really put themselves out there, means so much to us as organizers , as students and as champions of this cause. We need to promote and nurture our entrepreneurs and that’s what this university is all about.

Letria Nyoni  a second year Medical Laboratory Sciences student said she was highly motivated and encouraged by the spirit and intention of the event.

I like the idea of this event where staff and students are interacting in a relaxed environment. I like the fact that innovation is not just for students in STEM but it really is for everyone and anyone can be a part of it.

The i5Hub continues to be a groundbreaking enterprise that is transforming communities, bringing innovation to grassroots level in primary schools, high schools, universities and the society at large.