School Information

The Simon Mazorodze School of Medical and Health Sciences at Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) was inaugurated on October 21, 2022. Located in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, the school aims to transform healthcare in the region by addressing the critical shortage of medical professionals. A distinctive feature of the school is its integration of traditional and herbal medicine into the curriculum, aligning with GZU’s heritage-based Education 5.0 model.

Dean: Professor Jacob Mufunda

Admission Procedure

Admission to the Simon Mazorodze School of Medical and Health Sciences is competitive and based on academic merit. Prospective students should have strong backgrounds in science subjects. The admission process includes an application review and may involve interviews or entrance examinations. Specific details about entry requirements and the application process are available on the school’s official website.

Courses Taught

The school offers a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Biomedical Sciences, which serves as a prerequisite for the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Honours Degrees (MBChB). The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both conventional medical sciences and traditional herbal medicine. The Biomedical Sciences Department comprises several units, including:

• Anatomy
• Biochemistry
• Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering
• Pathology
• Physiology
• Herbal Medicine and Pharmacology

Additionally, the school plans to offer programs in:

• Public Health (focusing on tropical diseases)
• Nursing
• Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Occupational Health Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Pharmacy

Postgraduate research programs leading to Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) degrees are also available in various medical science disciplines.

Prospects After Graduation

Graduates from the Simon Mazorodze School of Medical and Health Sciences are equipped with dual expertise in conventional medicine and traditional herbal practices, making them uniquely qualified to address diverse healthcare needs. Career opportunities include:

• Clinical Practice: Working as physicians in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.
• Research and Development: Engaging in medical research, particularly in traditional medicine and pharmacology.
• Public Health: Contributing to community health initiatives and policy development.
• Academic Careers: Teaching and mentoring future healthcare professionals.

The integration of traditional medicine into the curriculum positions graduates to contribute significantly to healthcare innovation and the validation of indigenous medical practices.

Life as a Doctor in Zimbabwe

Practicing medicine in Zimbabwe offers both challenges and rewards. Doctors play a crucial role in improving healthcare delivery, especially in underserved areas. The government’s focus on strengthening the healthcare system provides opportunities for medical professionals to make substantial impacts. Additionally, the recognition and integration of traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare present unique avenues for doctors trained in both fields.