Centre for Development Studies College Expands Footprint with New Branch in Plumtree

By Staff Reporter
PLUMTREE – In a significant milestone that underscores its rapid growth and commitment to accessible education, Centre for Development Studies (CDS) College has officially opened a new branch in Plumtree Town, bringing affordable and career-focused learning opportunities closer to students in Matabeleland South and surrounding areas.
The expansion comes as the institution continues to strengthen its presence across Zimbabwe, with established centres in Harare, Bulawayo, Gwanda, Hwange, and several other locations nationwide. The new Plumtree branch is expected to play a crucial role in widening access to quality education and professional training for young people seeking to acquire practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
CDS College, which operates in association with Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU), has built a reputation for offering affordable diploma programmes designed to address the country's skills gap. The institution caters to school leavers and working professionals through a flexible learning model that combines both face-to-face and online classes, allowing students to study at their convenience.
Speaking on the significance of the expansion, college representatives said the new branch reflects the institution's vision of ensuring that no deserving student is left behind because of geographical barriers or financial constraints.
The college offers a wide range of diploma programmes, including Information Technology and Cyber Security, Graphic Design and Technology, Occupational Health Safety and Environmental Management, Agriculture, Food Security and Livelihoods, Water and Sanitation, Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Accounting Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Community Development, Project Design, Monitoring and Evaluation, Psychological Counselling, Transport and Logistics, among many others.
With entry requirements of five Ordinary Level passes including English, CDS College provides an opportunity for many young Zimbabweans to pursue tertiary education within a relatively short period, with most diploma programmes completed within 12 to 18 months.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that institutions such as CDS College are helping to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs by equipping students with practical, marketable skills. As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with youth unemployment, vocational and professional training institutions are increasingly being viewed as key drivers of economic empowerment and community development.
The opening of the Plumtree branch also comes at a time when the college is receiving growing recognition for excellence in education and skills development. Last Friday, CDS College added another accolade to its growing list of achievements after being honoured at the Bulawayo Business Awards, further cementing its standing as one of the country's emerging education providers.
Over the years, the institution has received several awards and recognitions, reflecting its commitment to quality training, innovation, and student success.
College officials say the affordable fee structure remains one of the institution's strongest attractions, enabling students from diverse economic backgrounds to access tertiary education without excessive financial burden.