National University of Science and Technology Biography

Background

The National University of Science and Technology (NUST) is a public research university located in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. It was established in 1991 by an Act of Parliament to address the country’s need for skilled professionals in science, technology, and business fields. NUST is recognized as the second-largest university in Zimbabwe and has played a significant role in the nation’s higher education sector.

Foundation and Early Years

NUST opened its doors on April 8, 1991, with an initial intake of 270 students. The university started with three faculties: Commerce, Applied Science, and Industrial Technology. The first Chancellor was President Robert G. Mugabe, and Professor Phinias Makhurane served as the inaugural Vice-Chancellor. The university’s main campus is situated on a 160-hectare site in Bulawayo, donated by the city council.

Leadership and Governance

The university is governed by a Council responsible for policy and strategic direction. The current Chancellor is the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. Professor Mqhele Enock-Hershal Dlodlo has served as Vice-Chancellor since 2018. NUST’s leadership oversees academic, administrative, and financial matters.

Academic Structure

NUST offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through several faculties:

• Faculty of Applied Sciences
• Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences
• Faculty of Built Environment
• Faculty of Communication and Information Science
• Faculty of Medicine
• Faculty of Industrial Technology
• Faculty of Science and Technology Education

The university uses English as the medium of instruction and follows a semester system.

Research and Innovation

NUST is known for its research activities, particularly in science and technology. The university has received awards for research excellence, including recognition as the Best Research Institution in 2018. It operates an Innovation Hub that supports projects in genetics testing, manufacturing, and health-related products.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus in Bulawayo includes academic buildings, laboratories, a library, student services, and limited on-campus accommodation. Additional student housing is provided through partnerships and new developments, such as the Bulawayo Students City complex, which opened in 2023.

Student Life

Students at NUST participate in various sports, clubs, and societies. There are 18 active sports clubs, and the university’s football team competes in local leagues. The Student Representative Council organizes student activities and advocates for student interests.

Fees and Admissions

Tuition fees for the 2024/25 academic year range from US$500 to US$650 per semester, depending on the faculty. Accommodation fees vary, with on-campus housing costing about US$800 per semester (including meals). The university receives around 20,000 applications annually and admits about 5,000 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 73%.

International Partnerships

NUST is a member of several international organizations, including the Association of Commonwealth Universities and the Association of African Universities. It maintains exchange programs and collaborative projects with institutions worldwide.

Rankings

See where NUST ranks on the top 20 list of best Universities in Zimbabwe in 2025.

We are working towards providing the most accurate rankings. Contact IBZIM support for more info: +263717238876 (whatsapp)