Forestry Colleges
The forestry sector of Zimbabwe is primarily located in the Eastern Highlands, where the climate favors the growth of exotic tree species such as Pinus, Eucalyptus, and Acacias. Approximately 95% of plantation forests are located within this region in Manicaland.
It is against this backdrop that the Forest Industries Training Centre (FITC) and the Zimbabwe College of Forestry (ZCF) are strategically positioned in the Eastern Highlands. These institutions are unique in Zimbabwe — and possibly within the entire SADC region — specializing in forest industries training. They offer Diplomas and Certificates in Forestry, Wood Technology, Sawdoctoring, and short courses tailored to these fields.
This specialized focus has produced unmatched expertise and experience in the forest industry. The high demand for FITC and ZCF graduates both in Zimbabwe and internationally is testament to their impact. Many alumni occupy senior positions in timber companies across the SADC region and beyond.
Zimbabwe College of Forestry (ZCF)
Established in 1946, ZCF began by offering a certificate course for forest rangers. As of 2012, it offers a Diploma in Forestry for supervisors and managers. To date, over 500 foresters have graduated with diplomas or certificates, including around 20% female graduates. Additionally, more than 300 students have earned short-course certificates in areas like chainsaw operations, supervisory skills, and forest fire management.
Forest Industries Training Centre (FITC)
Founded in 1990 as a regional institution, FITC specializes in training for Wood Technology, Sawdoctoring, and related short courses, with an emphasis on primary log milling. It remains the only institution in Zimbabwe offering certified training in the sawdoctoring trade. Since inception, over 300 wood technologists and more than 50 certified sawdoctors have graduated from FITC.
Modernization & Semesterisation
Both institutions have adopted semesterisation (two terms per year) with support from the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO). This replaced the old trimester system and included a curriculum review in 2009, adding new subjects like environmental management and computer science in response to global ICT and environmental trends.
Block Release Programme
The Block Release Diploma in Forestry was launched in December 2011. It features two intensive training blocks per year (each lasting eight weeks), followed by workplace-based practicals. The programme is ideal for working professionals with a Certificate in Forestry or suitable A-level qualifications. The pilot group consists of 15 students from Border Timbers and Wattle Company.
Faculty and Future Outlook
The institutions are staffed by highly experienced lecturers, with some having over 30 years of service. Future plans include introducing degree programmes in partnership with other higher education institutions. There is also potential for transforming the colleges into a fully-fledged university, given their infrastructure, expertise, and track record of innovation and self-sustainability.