ICT Services Overview
Director - Mr Newman Ishe Chinofunga
MSc Information Systems Management, BSc (Hons) Information Systems, Data Protection Officer Certificate
Vision
To be a key enabler of ZEGU’s transformation into a leading global, innovative, and research-driven Christian University producing a total person, by ensuring seamless integration of fully automated University Management Systems for efficient service delivery. The Department provides a reliable, secure, and integrated ICT infrastructure that supports administration, teaching, learning, research, and virtual engagement in alignment with Education 5.0 and the University’s strategic goals.
Mission
The ICT Department exists to support ZEGU’s commitment to global quality teaching and learning, high-impact research, innovation, industrialization, and effective community engagement. This is delivered by motivated and skilled staff in a conducive Christian environment, through world-class ICT services that offer secure infrastructure, responsive technical support, and continuous digital innovation.
Welcome to the ICT Department
- Welcome to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU)!
- We take great pride in leading the charge for digital transformation within our University, playing a crucial role in fostering academic excellence, advancing research, sparking innovation, enhancing administrative efficiency, and aligning with our vision of nurturing well-rounded individuals.
- In today’s fast-paced digital world, ICT has evolved beyond just a support role; it is now a key driver of institutional growth and global competitiveness.
- Our ICT Department is committed to delivering secure, reliable, and integrated tech services that empower both staff and students and support their academic and professional journeys.
- We ensure the smooth operation of fully automated University Management Systems, virtual learning platforms, digital assessment tools, and secure communication channels.
- Our infrastructure supports diverse services including e-learning and enterprise applications, data protection, cybersecurity, and high-speed connectivity across campus.
- We play a vital role in advancing Education 5.0 through technology-driven teaching, research, innovation, industrialization, and community engagement.
- Our dedicated team of ICT professionals is passionate about providing responsive technical support, maintaining modern digital environments, and promoting digital literacy throughout the University community.
- We collaborate with Academic and Administrative Departments to innovate and enhance service delivery, ensuring ZEGU stands out as a leading Christian institution in global higher education.
- Whether you are a student accessing online learning materials, a researcher managing data, or a staff member optimizing daily tasks, the ICT Department supports you with excellence, integrity, and innovation.
- We invite you to explore our services, connect with our team, and partner with us as we propel ZEGU’s mission forward.
ICT Department Core Values
- Excellence in Service Delivery
- Innovation and Digital Transformation
- Integrity & Security
- Collaboration & Partnership
- User-Centric Support
- Stewardship of Resources
- Christian Ethos
Core Services:
Academic Support Services
- To boost teaching and learning, the Department offers a range of academic technologies, including a Learning Management System (LMS) like Moodle.
- This platform enables lecturers to share course materials, manage assessments, and engage with students online.
- The Department also supports virtual learning tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams to enhance remote and blended education.
- Additionally, the department provides technical assistance for lecture recording and streaming systems, which helps empower hybrid teaching models.
Administrative Systems
- We play a vital role in supporting the University's operations through integrated digital systems.
- Our Student Information System (SIS) takes care of essential processes like registration, grading, scheduling, and maintaining academic records.
- We also oversee Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems that simplify finance, procurement, payroll, and human resources.
- Additionally, we integrate electronic payment platforms to make transactions easier for students, staff, and suppliers.
- On top of that, we offer ongoing support for the University Library’s cataloging and access to electronic resources.
Network and Connectivity Services
- The ICT department ensures that both staff and students stay connected across all University Campuses.
- We provide and maintain high-speed LAN and campus-wide Wi-Fi infrastructure, ensuring secure and uninterrupted internet access.
- For those working remotely, we offer Virtual Private Network (VPN) services to facilitate safe connectivity for staff and researchers.
- To safeguard the integrity of University systems, we manage firewalls and bandwidth allocation tools to prevent misuse and ensure fair internet distribution.
- We also maintain official University email services, complete with features like spam filtering and cloud-based storage.
Cybersecurity and Data Protection
- When it comes to cybersecurity, we take it very seriously.
- We use endpoint protection solutions like antivirus software and device monitoring tools to keep threats at bay.
- Our team manages firewalls and intrusion detection systems to spot and block any unauthorized access.
- We perform regular data backups and have disaster recovery plans ready to ensure smooth operations during system failures or cyber incidents.
- Additionally, we comply with the Cyber and Data Protection Act (CDPA) and align our practices with International Cybersecurity Standards.
Helpdesk and Technical Support
- Our ICT Helpdesk is your go-to spot for all things tech support.
- We assist with troubleshooting hardware and upgrading University-owned devices.
- We also help with software installations, whether proprietary or open-source.
- You can reach out to us via email, phone, or in person, and we’ll ensure a quick resolution.
- Additionally, we maintain and operate the computer laboratories, ensuring everything is up and running for both students and staff.
Infrastructure and Equipment Management
- The ICT Department is in charge of managing all the University's ICT infrastructure, from procurement to deployment and maintenance.
- We handle everything from sourcing and installing computers, projectors, printers, routers, and servers to other digital equipment.
- Our team is involved in creating smart classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, microphones, and lecture capture tools.
- We keep a detailed inventory of all ICT assets, ensuring they are properly tagged, tracked, and managed throughout their lifecycle.
Digital Platforms and Web Services
- Having a robust digital presence is crucial for the University’s identity and operations.
- We take charge of designing, hosting, and managing the content of the University’s official website, ensuring it is updated promptly and meets accessibility standards.
- We handle secure portals for students and staff, providing access to academic, administrative, and personal information.
- Our intranet platforms facilitate internal communication and document sharing.
- Our digital branding efforts ensure a consistent look across social media and online publications.
Research and Innovation Support
- Our Department plays a vital role in supporting research with a variety of specialized ICT services.
- We manage the University’s Open Institutional Repository (OIR), which provides access to scholarly publications and research outputs.
- We offer secure tools for managing research data, facilitating storage, organization, and sharing of information.
- We provide consultancy services to help researchers choose and develop software tools, data analytics solutions, and collaborative platforms.
- For data-intensive and scientific research, we offer high-performance computing resources.
Training and Capacity Building
- We’re dedicated to enhancing digital skills among both staff and students.
- Our Department runs ICT orientation sessions for newcomers, helping them get acquainted with essential University systems.
- We provide ongoing digital literacy workshops covering a wide range of skills, from using productivity tools to managing files and navigating online platforms.
- To promote safe online behavior, we conduct regular cybersecurity awareness campaigns.
- We offer specialized training sessions for staff to improve their use of teaching technologies, administrative systems, and digital communication tools.