Zimbabwe’s forestry sector is concentrated in the Eastern Highlands — where the climate favours the growth of exotic species like Pinus, Eucalyptus and Acacias. Roughly 95% of the country’s plantation forests are found here 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 — unique in Zimbabwe and possibly within the entire SADC region. Their specialised focus has produced unmatched expertise: graduates today occupy senior positions in timber companies across the SADC region and beyond.
Zimbabwe College of Forestry
Forest Resources Management · Forestry Diplomas & Short Courses
Began in 1946 by offering a certificate course for forest rangers. As of 2012, ZCF offers a Diploma in Forestry for supervisors and managers — plus a portfolio of short courses for industry.
Forest Industries Training Centre
Wood Technology · Sawdoctoring · Primary Log Milling
Founded as a regional institution specialising 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.
From trimesters to semesterisation — in step with global trends.
Both institutions have adopted semesterisation (two terms per year) with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) — replacing the old trimester system.
A 2009 curriculum review added new subjects including environmental management and computer science, responding to global ICT and environmental trends.
New subjects introduced
- Environmental Management
- Computer Science
Block Release Diploma in Forestry
A flexible diploma pathway designed for working professionals — combining intensive on-campus blocks with workplace-based practicals.
Working professionals with a Certificate in Forestry or suitable A-level qualifications.
Drawn from Border Timbers and Wattle Company.
Built on experience. Heading toward university status.
The colleges are staffed by highly experienced lecturers — some with over 30 years of service. Future plans include introducing degree programmes in partnership with other higher-education institutions.
There is also potential to transform the colleges into a fully-fledged university, given existing infrastructure, expertise and a strong track record of innovation and self-sustainability.