By Edward Makuzva The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) is in mourning following the passing of its Registrar, Dr. Munyaradzi Madambi, a respected academic, administrator, and mentor who dedicated nearly three decades of service to the institution. Dr. Madambi’s association with UZ began in 1997 when he joined as a lecturer in the Department of Leadership Training. Known for his passion for student mentorship and academic excellence, he quickly became a central figure in the university’s leadership and student welfare programmes. In 2008, he was appointed Dean of Students, a role he held with distinction for 14 years. Under his stewardship, the Office of the Dean of Students strengthened student welfare programmes, leadership development initiatives, and community engagement projects. Many credit him with building a culture of inclusivity, dialogue and student-centred policies that enhanced life on campus. Recognising his exemplary service and administrative acumen, UZ elevated Dr. Madambi to the position of Registrar in 2022. In this capacity, he oversaw academic administration, records management, and governance frameworks. His tenure saw the streamlining of administrative processes and the digitisation of student records, which helped modernise and improve efficiency across the university. Beyond his official responsibilities, Dr. Madambi was revered for his humility, wisdom, and generosity of spirit. He was known to keep an open-door policy, making time for students and colleagues alike. Many former students fondly remember his fatherly guidance, his ability to listen, and his commitment to nurturing leadership qualities among young people. Academically, Dr. Madambi holds advanced degrees in education and leadership studies. He contributed significantly to scholarship in leadership, governance, and student affairs in higher education. His publications and conference presentations reflected a deep-seated belief in education as a transformative force for individuals and society. Over the course of nearly 30 years at the University of Zimbabwe, Dr. Madambi touched the lives of thousands of students and staff. His leadership helped shape policies that supported student development, extracurricular activities, and career progression — creating opportunities for many who passed through the university’s halls. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, alumni and the broader academic community, all highlighting his enduring legacy of dedication, mentorship, and institutional progress. Dr. Madambi is celebrated not only by his family but also by the countless students and staff who benefited from his leadership and guidance. His passing marks the end of an era for the University of Zimbabwe, but his vision for student-centred education and administrative excellence will continue to inspire generations to come. Patience Chipere, a former student of Nyamuroro Kubatana High School, added that Dr. Madambi was more than a teacher to them at Nyamuroro and Kubatana High School in Gokwe North; he was a mentor who inspired them to dream beyond their circumstances. “His passing is a huge loss, but his lessons and example will live on in all of us,” Chipere said.Chipere highlighted that Dr. Madambi was not just a teacher but a guiding light. He taught us to believe in ourselves and to strive for excellence, no matter our background.l “We mourn Dr. Madambi’s loss, but we also celebrate the legacy of mentorship and hope he instilled in us as his students at Nyamuroro and Kubatana High School,” Chipere explained. Post navigation The Vision and Resolve of ZANU PF in Driving National Growth