Tinotenda Hove – In a major boost for access to higher education, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has partnered with Midlands State University (MSU) to launch a US$52,000 undergraduate scholarship programme targeting underprivileged Zimbabwean students. The landmark initiative, announced during a signing ceremony at the MSU campus in Gweru, is set to benefit five students starting in August 2025.

The fully funded scholarships will cover tuition for the entire duration of each student’s academic programme through to 2029. Beneficiaries will also receive personal laptops to support their digital learning journey.

Applications will be advertised in the national press, with eligibility restricted to disadvantaged Zimbabwean nationals by birth or residency. In line with efforts to promote gender equity, three of the five scholarships will be awarded to female students, and two to male students, based on MSU’s enrolment and selection criteria.

Dr Gift Manyatera, MSU Pro Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Campus Development, praised the partnership as a transformative milestone for the university:

“As a stakeholder-driven institution, we are proud to partner with Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe in bringing this vision to life. This scholarship programme is a powerful gesture—especially during our 25th anniversary celebrations. It’s a befitting initiative that speaks directly to our mission of serving and uplifting disadvantaged students. We look forward to a transparent and fruitful collaboration.”

Representing Stanbic Bank, Head of Brand and Marketing Tariro Memo emphasised the bank’s broader vision of inclusive national development through education:

“This partnership is more than just a scholarship—it’s a strategic investment in Zimbabwe’s future. Education has the power to unlock potential and build resilient communities. When we support our youth, we drive long-term growth.”

Memo also highlighted Stanbic Bank’s ongoing commitment to education through its partnership with Africa University, where several students are currently on full scholarships:

“We have been active in the educational space and have witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of this initiative. We are proud to extend this opportunity to students at MSU through a model we know delivers real results.”

To ensure transparency and fairness, the scholarship programme will be overseen by a management committee. The initiative forms part of Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe’s corporate social investment (CSI) strategy, which prioritises education, health, sanitation, and environmental sustainability. The agreement officially comes into effect on 3 July 2025.