In 2012, the Women’s University in Africa (WUA) marks its 10th anniversary. It is also the year in which the university launched its four year Strategic Plan on the 18th of June 2012. This Plan will facilitate the optimum growth in stature and reputation of the University and enable the university to keep in line with the Women’s University in Africa vision “To be the best university in Africa in the promotion of gender equity in tertiary education.”

The event was attended by the Dr. Fannie Leautier, (Executive Secretary - ACBF) who was the Guest of Honour, Rev. Ramushu (The University Chaplain), Mrs. Marah Hativagone (Vice Chairperson of Council), Dr. E. Garwe (Acting Chief Executive Officer - ZIMCHE), WUA staff, students, honorary degree awardees, partners and stakeholders.

The coming together of the 2012-2015 Strategic Plan marks a milestone regarding the growth of the University. Dr. Leautier noted that it was pleasing to see that the University was taking strides that uphold the core values of the institution such as transparency and accountability, “I am very happy to note that WUA’s Strategic Plan clearly indicates the broader goals of the institution...We at ACBF are pleased to be associated with WUA goals and it is our continued hope that we will continue to walk with WUA and contribute to the development of this country.”

Pro- Vice Chancellor Nherera, gave a detailed outline of the plan which was well received by the audience. The Strategic Plan was then officially presented to the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Educadation adn Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education both represented by Dr E Garwe, and also ACBF represent by Dr Leautier.
In the 2012-2015 Strategic Plan, WUA strives to attain several tactical objectives derived from the University Charter. These objectives take cognisance of the ever changing needs of a dynamic society. The new programs and faculties introduced take into account current and projected development needs not only in Africa but globally. Professor Hope Sadza, the Vice Chancellor of WUA reiterated that  this is “why they [The Strategic Plan Goals] are benchmarked against the best international standards for university institutions.”

This Strategic Plan also leverages from the successful activities the 2009-2011 Strategic Plan and these points include the following:

WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY IN AFRICA STRATEGIC PLAN POINTS

1. To leverage on the continued success of our academic programmes, that have managed to recruit and retain experienced staff.
2. To continue to grow exponentially regarding student enrolment. From an initial intake of 145 students in 2002 to an expected enrolment of over 3500 by September 2015 in 8 faculties.
3. To continue to offer academic programmes at a competitive market rates. It is our goal that no woman should opt out of having a tertiary education because of financial constraints.
4. To promote gender equity through affirmative action for women.
5. Continue to enhance access to physical facilities for people with special needs.
6. Continue to strengthen student’s leadership and management capacity.
7. Growing WUA Regional Coordinating Offices outside Zimbabwe, and within Zimbabwe’s boarders.

As a private institution WUA would also like to thank its Strategic Partners that have continued to support the university throughout the years. At this point WUA would like to specifically show its gratitude to Africa Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), who on the 6th of June gave a grant to Women’s University in Africa totalling USD$3 million. This grant is a significant stepping stone in empowering WUA to achieve its strategic goals, of raising women’s capacity and supporting their ability to reach their fullest potential in Africa’s development processes.