Centre for Development Studies (CDS): Bridging the Academic Gap in Matabeleland Region and Beyond

By Staff Reporter

BULAWAYO- For decades, access to higher education has been a stumbling block for many young people in Matabeleland and across Zimbabwe. Limited spaces at traditional universities and colleges, high costs, and the absence of institutions close to home have left thousands of talented youths without opportunities to realize their full potential.

But a local institution is rewriting that story.

The Centre for Development Studies (CDS), founded by a visionary Zimbabwean academic and businessman, is rapidly emerging as a beacon of hope—providing affordable, accessible, and globally recognized education. With campuses in Bulawayo, Gwanda, and Gweru, plus flexible online learning options, CDS is bringing education to the doorstep of communities long neglected.

CDS is proudly registered with HEXCO and offers diploma and certificate programs that meet the highest national standards. The college also has partnerships with Lupane State University and Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU)—the latter sealed through a recent MoU that makes CDS an official ZEGU affiliate. This affiliation elevates the value of CDS qualifications and opens new academic and professional pathways for students.

Beyond Zimbabwe, CDS is affiliated with ABMA-UK and works with other international boards such as IAC, giving its graduates qualifications that carry global recognition.

Programs that Empower Communities



From diplomas in Development Studies, Business, Agriculture, and IT to short courses in areas such as Solar Technology, Project Management, Counseling, Gender-Based Violence, and Entrepreneurship, CDS tailors its curriculum to the needs of today’s job market.

The college’s mission is simple: to empower individuals with applied skills that drive social and economic progress—both locally and abroad.

And affordability is at the heart of the CDS promise:

Registration starts from just US$25
Modules cost as little as US$30 each
This makes higher education not only possible but sustainable for ordinary Zimbabweans.

Opening Doors for Young Women

In partnership with the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT), CDS is spearheading a Young Women’s Education Scholarship, ensuring that more women from disadvantaged backgrounds access higher learning opportunities.

Upcoming Highlights

Graduation Ceremony: Bulawayo, 12 December
ZEGU Research Conference: Students and staff will participate in academic discussions that connect theory with real-world development challenges.
Branches & Contacts

Bulawayo: Elons Court, 4th Street & 3rd Street | ☎️ +263 776 400 223
Gwanda: ZFU Building, opposite Gwanda Government Complex | ☎️ +263 713 947 431
Gweru: Suite 1, Manor Court, ED Mnangagwa Street | ☎️ +263 774 648 41
Harare: (Contact details available upon request)
The Centre for Development Studies is more than just a college—it is a lifeline of hope. Whether you dream of becoming a development practitioner, an entrepreneur, a skilled technician, or a leader in your community, CDS is ready to walk the journey with you.

Centre for Development Studies – Bridging the Academic Gap, Empowering Generations.