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Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) Biography

Zimbabwe Open University also known as ZOU is a state owned open distance university. Read more about the institution and its academics in this biography.

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Details
Legal NameZimbabwe Open University
Year Founded1999 (26 Years Ago)
Chancellor
President of Zimbabwe
Main Campus
Harare, Zimbabwe
Motto
Empowerment Through Open Learning
Type
Public Open Distance Learning University
Contact Number
+263 242 793002, +263 242 793003
Contact Email
students@zou.ac.zw

Background

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is a public university in Zimbabwe that specializes in open and distance electronic learning (ODeL). Established in 1999 through an Act of Parliament, ZOU aims to provide accessible higher education to a diverse student population across the country. It operates under the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development.

Academic Programs

ZOU offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and short courses. The university comprises several faculties

  • Faculty of Agriculture
  • Faculty of Arts, Culture and Heritage Studies
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Commerce and Law
  • Faculty of Applied Social Sciences
  • Faculty of Science and Technology
  • Faculty of Information Technology and Multimedia

All programs are accredited by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE).

Mode of Delivery

ZOU utilizes open and distance learning methodologies, enabling students to study flexibly through online platforms and printed materials. This approach caters to working professionals and individuals in remote areas

Rankings

See where ZOU 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)