University of Zimbabwe to introduce advanced degree in nanotechnology

University of Zimbabwe, Nanotechnology

University of Zimbabwe Vice Chancellor Prof Levi Nyagura says plans are afoot to introduce an advanced degree in nanotechnology at the institution to enable students to apply their knowledge in the fields of nanotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences. Speaking

at a presentation ceremony of US$40 000 grant from the Ministry of Science and Technology Development Innovation and Commercialisation Fund to the UZ School of Pharmacy yesterday Prof Nyagura said the money would be used to develop sunscreens for people living with albanism and other skin disorders.

"At the University of Zimbabwe our emphasis on post graduate education should soon see us introduce advanced degrees in nanotechnology," Prof Nyagura said.

"In this regard, plans are underway to introduce a Master of Science degree in Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences majoring in nano-medicine."

Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at the atomic level to create materials with varied and new properties for more effective innovations in healthcare, electronics and construction projects.

It deals with the design and manufacture of extremely small electronic circuits and mechanical devices and its uses range from surface science, organic chemistry to molecular biology.

In March this year, the Minister of Science and Technology Development, Prof Heneri Dzinotyiwei launched the Zimbabwe Nanotechnology Centre (ZINC), a project jointly operated by government, academic research institutions and the private sector.