The Harare Institute of Public Health (HIPH) has made notable progress in strengthening institutional capacity and advancing innovative teaching practices through its participation in the Sustain-IT Project. Co-funded by the ERASMUS programme, this initiative has positioned HIPH as a forward-looking higher education institution committed to embedding sustainability, inclusivity and digital pedagogy into its academic framework.
Over three intensive days of training, HIPH hosted a structured programme that brought together 20 participants, including educators, trainers, academic staff and programme officers. Importantly, the training targeted those involved in Vocational Education and Training (TVET), ensuring that the outcomes directly support workforce development and skills training in Zimbabwe.
The sessions focused on environmental awareness, inclusive teaching methodologies, digital learning tools and social entrepreneurship. This multidisciplinary approach enriched the programme through peer learning, collaborative exercises and challenge-based activities designed to strengthen both pedagogical and operational perspectives.
The objectives were clear: to build educator capacity in sustainability education, promote learner-centred teaching, enhance digital competencies and develop practical skills in social entrepreneurship. Participants engaged in interactive workshops, case studies and group activities that encouraged practical application of concepts within African learning environments.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the relevance of the training to their professional roles. Many appreciated the participatory nature of the sessions, particularly the challenge-based learning activities, which fostered problem-solving and innovation. The introduction of accessible digital tools was singled out as especially valuable, offering practical solutions for teaching in low-resource and low-connectivity contexts.
Crucially, the training improved confidence among educators, equipping them with strategies to apply inclusive teaching approaches and strengthen equity and diversity in TVET and higher education. Suggestions for future sessions included allocating more time to practical exercises and providing ongoing support to consolidate learning outcomes.
HIPH's involvement in Sustain-IT reflects its broader vision of preparing graduates who are industry-ready, globally competitive and capable of contributing meaningfully to national development. By embedding sustainability and innovation into its teaching practices, HIPH is enhancing institutional capacity while supporting Zimbabwe's wider educational and public health priorities.