The Harare Institute of Technology is developing into a diverse and complex University that specialises in the teaching and training of Science, Engineering, Technology, Technopreneurship, Business and Management Sciences, Professional and Collaborative programmes including technical pedagogy.
Given the demands brought about by this development and transformation, the Institute is set to improve and expand the existing facilities inorder to develop the campus in a way that supports its larger aspirations of developing a sustainable campus community, creating distinctive architecture, open spaces, and setting standards for others to emulate. HIT is planning the physical development and expansion of its campus with strategic initiatives through a long range Master Plan, which provides the framework for facilities that support excellence in education, research and innovation; including service delivery.
The HIT Master Plan was presented by Mr J. Dzimwasha of Dzimwasha Architects to the Institutes' Campus Development Committee meeting held on 7 March 2018. The Meeting was presided by the Campus Development Committee Chairperson Eng. F. Mavhiya-Mabhiza, and was attended by HIT Board members and Senior Management. The meeting was convened to discuss the HIT Master Plan Design concept with the architectural consultant.
Presenting the Master Plan Design Concept at the meeting, Mr J. Dzimwasha highlighted that the plan includes architectural designs of the Institute's six Schools, Research and Skills Development centres as well as the Support units such as the library, students' hostels and staff accommodation. “We are already carrying out topographical surveys on the land, soil investigations and environmental impact assessments and a wetlands report to determine what kind of soils we intend to build on, taking into consideration the kind of structures to be built and areas that should be left unbuilt for purposes of maintaining the ecosystem. We also need to make maximum use of the available land as we are trying to develop and maintain the wetlands which comprise the larger part of the land available by coming up with futuristic building designs to match an environment of advanced technology,” he said.
Eng. Mavhiya-Mabhiza called for regular meetings and interactions with the architect, J. Dzimwasha and Galaxy consulting Engineers for further interaction as well the production of timelines with regards to project implementation.
Vice Chancellor Eng. Q.C Kanhukamwe also advised the meeting that some business and infrastructural development organisations are already approaching the University to discuss and explore opportunities for partnerships in funding and building some of the infrastructure on the Master Plan. The University will also utilise its strategic collaborations to expand opportunities for acquisition of facilities and equipment
The HIT Master Plan involves the construction of facilities using environmentally responsible design and practices which enhance the educational environment.