Zimbabwe Open University Student Revolutionizes Cultural Tourism with Immersive VR Project

Daglous MacKinnon

As Zimbabwe Open University celebrated its 25th anniversary and witnessed its 23rd graduation ceremony, one student shone bright with his innovative project that is set to revolutionize the country's cultural tourism sector. Alpha Zigara, a software engineering student, was recognized for his immersive virtual reality project that promotes Zimbabwe's cultural heritage.

"I have always been passionate about preserving and promoting Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage through technology," Alpha said in an interview with Dagmedia. "During my studies, I realized that many young people are losing connection with our traditions and history, and that Zimbabwe's incredible cultural tourism potential was being underutilized with many heritage sites and experiences not easily accessible to local and international audiences, leading to missed revenue opportunities."

Alpha's project, "Immersive Virtual Reality for Zimbabwe Cultural Heritage," allows users to experience the beauty and depth of Zimbabwe's traditions, history, and tourism sites through realistic 3D environments. Users can take virtual tours of heritage sites, museums, and traditional events, join 3D-streamed cultural festivals, or use interactive educational modules designed for schools and universities.

"The main problem was the missed revenue opportunities in Zimbabwe's cultural tourism sector," Alpha explained. "Many heritage sites are underutilized due to distance, cost, or lack of modern digital promotion. I wanted to help unlock new revenue streams by digitizing these experiences and making them accessible globally."

The project has already gained recognition, with Alpha's prototype being demonstrated at exhibitions and national competitions. He is currently refining the project for use by tourism boards, museums, and schools for cultural education and promotion, and is seeking partners to scale it commercially.

"I envision the project creating multiple layers of impact," Alpha said. "From economic impact by unlocking new revenue streams for tourism, heritage sites, and local artisans, to educational impact by providing immersive learning tools for schools and universities, and cultural impact by reviving and preserving traditional practices, oral histories, and rituals in digital form for future generations."

The Vice Chancellor of Zimbabwe Open University, Professor Emeritus Paul Gundani, praised Alpha's achievement, saying, "Let me begin by highlighting the most important stakeholders in the university, our students. I would like to acknowledge the following students who make ZOU your university of pride this year through their superb innovations at the Potraz innovations challenge."

Alpha's project is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity. As he advises, "Start with a real problem that affects people  innovation should serve a purpose. Use the tools you have, stay consistent, and don’t let limited resources stop you. Collaboration, creativity, and persistence are key. Every great innovation begins with an idea and the courage to bring it to life."