
Lecturer, Department of Curriculum & Educational Management Studies, Faculty of Science Education
Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE)
Email: ddziva@buse.ac.zw; dziva1234@gmail.com
Qualifications
- 2018 PhD, University of Patras, Greece
- 2006 MSc.Ed., Curriculum Studies, Bindura University of Science Education, Zimbabwe
- 1999 Licentiate Degree in Education, Biology, Instituto Superior Pedagógica, Enrique Jose Varona, Cuba
Research Interests
- Teacher Knowledge
- Curriculum Development
- Indigenous Knowledge and Science Education
- Quality Management
Teaching & Supervision
Dr Dziva teaches a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in curriculum design, pedagogy, research methods, and quality management. He has supervised more than 50 undergraduate and over 15 postgraduate dissertations and theses, and has led the development and ZIMCHE accreditation of the MScEd Curriculum Studies and the Postgraduate Diploma in Quality Management in Education programmes.
Publications
Books
- Modebelu, M., Makuvire, C., Dziva, D., Mudavanhu, Y., Mhishi, M., & Chikuvadze, P. (2025). Mastering Academic Writing Skills: A Handbook for University Students. Mastering Academic Writing Skills: A Handbook for University Students, 1–76. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-81-991363-7-3
- Makuvire, C., P. Chikuvadze, Dziva, D., Mudavanhu, Y. & Mhishi, M. (Eds.). (2025).
Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa.
BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0 - Rudhumbu, N., Dziva, D., Mutseekwa, C., Mudavanhu, Y., Moyo, P.V., Mswazie, J., Bhukuvani, C., Nezandoyi, J. & Mutanga, P. (2023). Curriculum Issues, Processes and Practice. Melbee Publishers, Harare.
- Dziva, D. (2018). Zimbabwe Teachers’ Espoused and Enacted Knowledge for Teaching Ordinary Level Integrated Science. PhD Thesis, National Archives of PhD Theses (EADD NaPhD, National Documentation Centre, Athens). https://freader.ekt.gr/eadd/index.php?doc=44734
Book Chapters
- Dziva, D., Makuvire, C., Chikuvadze, P., Mhishi, M., Mudavanhu, Y. (2025). Equitable Quality Education for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa. In C. Makuvire, P. Chikuvadze, D. Dziva, Y. Mudavanhu, & M. Mhishi (Eds) (2025) Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa (pp. 122-139). BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH7
- Makuvire, C., Chikuvadze, P., Mudavanhu, Y. Dziva, D., (2025). Transformative Education: The Catalyst for Change in Sub-Saharan Africa. In C. Makuvire, P. Chikuvadze, D. Dziva, Y. Mudavanhu, & M. Mhishi (Eds) (2025) Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa (pp. 1-23). BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH1
- Makuvire, C., Chikuvadze, P., Dziva, D., Mudavanhu, Y., & Mhishi, M. (2025). Transforming Science Education Through Arts: Opportunities and Challenges of STEAM Education. In S. Behera, A. Sorayyaei Azar, S. Curle, & J. Dials (Eds.), Transformative Approaches to STEAM Integration in Modern Education (pp. 583-606). IGI Global Scientific Publishing. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-7408-5.ch024
- Chikuvadze, P., Mudavanhu, Y. Dziva, D., Makuvire, C., & Zuva, J. (2025). Institutional and Programme Accreditation, Quality Audits and Academic Reviews as Quality Assurance Mechanisms in Higher Education. In C. Makuvire, P. Chikuvadze, Dziva, Y. Mudavanhu, & M. Mhishi (Eds) (2025) Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa (pp. 42-60). BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH3
- Chikuvadze, P., Mhishi, M., Dziva, D., Makuvire, C., Chikerema, T., & Machona, L. (2025). Redefining Higher Education Quality Assurance in Southern Africa through the Infusion of Artificial Intelligence. In C. Makuvire, P. Chikuvadze, D. Dziva, Y. Mudavanhu, & M. Mhishi (Eds) (2025) Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa (pp. 201-228). BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH11
- Mudavanhu, Y. Chikuvadze, P., Makuvire, C., & Dziva, D. (2025). Educational Policy Reforms in Zimbabwe Since 1980: Foundations for a Transformative Higher Education Curriculum. In C. Makuvire, P. Chikuvadze, D. Dziva, Y. Mudavanhu, & M. Mhishi (Eds) (2025) Quality Assurance Practices for Transformative Higher Education in Southern Africa (pp. 83-102). BP International. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH5
- Dziva, D., Mudavanhu, Y, Chikuvadze, P. & Zuva, J. (July 2025). Modularisation of higher education curriculum for sustainable development in Southern Africa. In Kudzayi, T., Chikuvadze, P. & Chidarikire, M. Internationalisation of Higher Education for Sustainable Development: A Southern African Perspective. Brill Publishers
- Dziva, D., Mudavanhu, Y., Mutseekwa, C. & Mugijima, S. (July 2025). Integrating Indigenous Knowledge into Zimbabwe’s science teacher development programmes for cultural sustainability. In, Internationalisation of Higher Education for Sustainable Development: A Southern African Perspective. Brill Publishers
Journal Articles
- Chitera, J., Gudyanga R., & Dziva, D. (2025). Investigating the impact of argumentation on high school students’ achievement in probability. Advanced Research Journal. I (1), 45-59. https://doi.org/10.71350/3062192515
- Dhlamini, C., Chikuvadze, P., Mudavanhu, Y., Dziva, D., & Makuvire, C. (2025). Competence-Based Education Pedagogy and Its Infusion into Primary School Learning Activities: Experiences from Teachers in A Selected Cluster in Eswatini. Journal of Educational Research and Practice (JERP), 3(1), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.70376/jerp.v3i1.267
- Rudhumbu, N., & Dziva, D. (2023). The influence of differentiated instruction on the academic performance of mathematics students in universities. International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 33(1), 32 – 51. https://doi:10.1504/ijil.2023.10045323
- Chikuvadze, P., Dziva, D., & Mugijima, S. (2023). Parental support for rural female students’ progression in Advanced Level science subject in one province of Zimbabwe. Futurity Education, 3(3), 217-230. https://doi.org/10.57125/FED.2023.09.25.12
- Chikuvadze, P., Mawadze, T. T., & Dziva, D. (2023). Progression in secondary school education in Zimbabwe: A mirage for rural female students. Vietnam Journal of Educational Sciences, 19(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.15625/2615-8957/22310104
- Mudavanhu, Y., Dziva, D., & Rudhumbu, N. (2023). In-service science and mathematics teachers’ motives and participation in continuous professional development. Mediterranean Journal of Education, 3(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.26220/mje.4142
- Rudhumbu N., du Plessis, E., Dziva, D. (2021). Level of integration of mobile device technology in teaching and learning in Botswana universities. IJEDICT Vol 17, Issue 1, p. 22-33. http://ijedict.dec.uwi.edu/viewissue.php?id=60
- D., Nyikahadzoyi, M., Ravanis, K. & Koliopoulos, D. (2018). Teacher Knowledge Manifestation of Integrated Science Teachers in Zimbabwe. Open Journal for Educational Research. 2(2), p. 57-72. ISSN (Online) 2560-5313 https://doi.org/10.32591/coas.ojer.0202.01057d
- Dziva, D., Kusure, L., Bhukuvhani, C., Mhishi, M., Muvindi, I., Zuvalinyenga, D., Basira, K., Berdut, I.R. (2015). Attrition of pre-service student science teachers under the virtual, open and distance learning (VODL) mode at Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) in Zimbabwe. Educational Journal of the University of Patras UNESCO Chair, 2(2), p. 25-34, https://doi.org/10.26220/une.2235
- Bhukuvhani, C., Mupa, M., Mhishi, M. and Dziva, D. (2012). Science Practical Work Instructional Technologies and Open Distance Learning in Science Teacher Training: A Case Study in Zimbabwe. IJEDICT, Volume 8, Issue 2. pp 17-27 ISSN: 1814-0556. http://ijedict.dec.uwi.edu/viewarticle.php?id=1497
- Dziva, D., Muvindi, I., Kusure, L., Mpofu, V., & Munodawafa, V. (2012). Teachers’ Conception of Indigenous Knowledge in Science Curriculum in the Context of Mberengwa District in Zimbabwe. Journal of Pedagogy, Pluralism, and Practice. 4(4) 76 – 98. https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1131&context=jppp
- Dziva, D., Mpofu, V., & Kusure, L. M. (2011). Teachers’ conception of indigenous knowledge in science Curriculum in the context of Mberengwa district. African Journal of Education and Technology, 1 (3) 88-102. https://www.topjournals.co.uk/ajet-1-3-2011
- Bhukuvhani, C., Mhishi, M., Dziva, D. (2011). Science Education through virtual and open distance learning: Science Practical Work Instructional Technology Use Audit. Zimbabwe International Journal of Open and Distance Learning Special Edition.
- Basulto, O.H., Berdut, I.R. & Dziva, D. (July, 2014). A Toolbox for Science and Mathematics Educators’ Professional Guidance at Bindura University of Science Education. The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies 2 (7) pp 58-61, ISSN: 2321 – 9203. https://www.internationaljournalcorner.com/index.php/theijhss/article/view/127923
- Muvindi, I., Zuvalinyenga, D. & Dziva, D. (October, 2013). Human Rights Education: The Zimbabwean Challenge. International Journal of English and Education 2(4) p. 275 – 284, ISSN: 2278-4012
- Berdut, I.R., Dziva, D, D. & Zivanai, J. (February, 2014). Negotiation in the formation of science teachers: a phenomenological examination of three lecturers’ experiences. World Journal of Educational Sustainability, Management and Leadership. 1 (1) P. 1-11
Modules:
- Dziva, D., Kusure, L., & Sana, A.F. (2012). Curriculum Study. BUSE, Bindura
- Dziva, D. (2012). Curriculum Design, Implementation and Evaluation. BUSE, Bindura
Research Grants & Funding Secured:
- Beit Trust, School Improvement Grant (2023): £28,000 (USD37, 700)
- Seeding Labs Instrumental Access Award (2020): Equipment valued at US$150,000
- BUSE Cluster Research Grant (Principal Researcher, 2012-2013): US$2,500
- Erasmus STETTIN PhD Funding (2013): €18,000(Direct sustenance)
Academic Honours and Awards
- 2009: Recipient, Commendation of producing the Best A-Level Biology Student Results, Mandava High School
- 2003: Commendation for Good Performance as a Teacher after Producing the Best Student Results in Biology Ordinary Level
- 2002 Examination at Musume in Mberengwa District
- 2002: Best A -Level Biology Teacher After Producing the Best Result at Musume in Mberengwa District
- 1996: Best Student, Academic: At Superior Pedagogical Institute, Jose Varona in Cuba.
Conference Presentations & Proceedings:
- Dziva, D., Moga, U., Mpofu, V. and Mukavhi, I. (2025). A Multi-Stakeholder Assessment of Quality at a Public University in Zimbabwe. 4th International Science Education and Technology Conference. Elephant Hills, Victoria Falls 21-23 August 2025
- Dziva, D. (2014). Behind science integration in Zimbabwe’s Integrated Science syllabus. RAIFFET Education Technologique, Formation professionnelle et Formation des enseignants International Conference. Marrakech 28-31 October 2014
- Dziva, D. (2014). Zimbabwe education system. Science Education Conference. Conference presentation at University of Patras
- Dziva, D. (2012). University students’ perceptions of characteristics of an effective lecturer: A validity study of a student evaluating lecturer Form using a Mixed Methods Analysis,” Conference presentation at Research and International Expo, University of Zimbabwe
- Berdut, I.R., Dziva, D. (2014). Negotiation in the Training of Science Teachers: A Phenomenological Examination of Two Lecturers’ Experiences. International Conference New Perspectives in Science Education. 2nd Ed. https://conference.pixel-online.net/conferences/npse2013/common/download/Abstract_pdf/235-TST11-ABS-Berdut-NPSE2013.pdf
- Moyo, P. V. and Dziva, D. (2013), The relative impact of an argumentation-based instructional programme on learners’ understanding of static electricity, 1st International Science and Mathematics Education Conference, Bindura University of Science Education, Zimbabwe
- Dziva, D. (2012). Science and Mathematics Preservice Teachers’ Views and Use of Project-based Learning, conference presentation at the 6th Annual Teaching and Learning Conference, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban
Innovation and Industrialisation Contributions
Demonstrated commitment to innovation and industrialisation in line with Education 5.0 pillars and BUSE’s strategic objectives:
- Educational Innovation Projects:
- Contributed to the development of innovative teaching methodologies for science education, including problem-based learning approaches as evidenced in research publications.
- Implemented ICT integration strategies in curriculum delivery, particularly in the VODL programme context and the use of MyBUSE (Moodle).
- Participated in the development and implementation of E-TP (Electronic Teaching Practice Supervision and Assessment) in response to COVID-19 at Bindura University of Science Education, Zimbabwe (2020)
- Curriculum Innovation:
- Led the innovative redesign of curriculum for the Master of Science Education Curriculum Studies programme.
- Developed the ground-breaking Postgraduate Diploma in Quality Management in Education, addressing a critical gap in professional development.
- Industrialisation Initiatives:
- Secured funding from the Beit Trust for the High School improvement (£28 000.00)
- Secured significant equipment funding through the Seeding Labs Instrumental Access Award (US$150,000), enhancing institutional capacity for practical training.
- Contributed to the development of industry-ready graduates through practice-oriented teaching and assessment approaches (e-TP).
University Service and Community Engagement
Extensive record of service to the university and broader community, demonstrating leadership, commitment, and impact:
- University Leadership Roles:
- Acting Quality Assurance Director (July-August 2024 and July 2025): Provided strategic leadership for university-wide quality assurance, ensuring adherence to standards across academic and support sectors.
- Chairperson, Department of Curriculum and Educational Management Studies (2019-2022): Provided academic and administrative leadership, managed departmental resources, and oversaw curriculum development.
- Acting Chairperson (2015, 2018): Temporarily assumed departmental leadership responsibilities.
- Coordinator, Virtual, Open and Distance Learning (VODL) Centre (2011-2012): Coordinated teaching, learning, and student support services at the centre with over 45 lecturers.
- Deputy Coordinator, Mzingwani BUSE VODL Centre (2013): Assisted in centre management and operations.
Committee Service:
Served on various university committees and boards, e.g.,
- Senator Bindura University of Science Education 2025 –
- Quality assurance Committee member Bindura University of Science Education 2022 – present
- FSE QA Rep, Bindura University of Science Education 2022 – present
- Board Member, Faculty of Science Education, Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE), 2010 to present
- Senator Bindura University of Science Education 2018 -2022
- Chairperson, Curriculum Studies Department, Bindura University of Science Education 2018 -2022
- Board Member, Department of Curriculum Studies, Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE), 2010 to present
- Member, Faculty Higher Degrees Committee 2018- 2022
- Coordinator-Virtual, Open and Distance Learning Centre, 2011 to 2012
- Member, Faculty of Science Education Higher Degrees Committee, 2011-2015
- Departmental Coordinator for Masters students’ dissertations, BUSE, 2012-2013
- Member, departmental subcommittee on regulations, 2012-2013
- Chairperson, Dzikwa Orphans Trust and BUSE Partnership Committee, 2012 -2013
- Member Senate subcommittee on regulations, 2015 to 2021
- Member of University Library committee, 2015 to 2020
- Member Open Day Committee, 2015 to 2023
- Member of University-wide timetable committee, 2015 to 2018
- Applied Science Education/teaching practice Coordinating team member, 2015 to 2018
Strategic planning initiatives at departmental, institutional and national levels.
- Dziva, D. Tools and Techniques for Implementing Evidence-Based Practices in Quality Assurance. Evidence-Based QA in Higher Education Workshop for Administrators. Bindura University of Science Education FSE Boardroom. 12 September 2025
- Dziva, D. The importance of aligning synopsis, the course aims and objectives, and course evaluation/assessment. Enhancing examination integrity and management: Best practices for academic staff. Wednesday 30 April 2025.
- Dziva, D. Submission, Review, and Approval of Developed Academic Programmes. Workshop: Academic Programme development and accreditation. BUSE FSE Boardroom. 25 April 2025
- Dziva, D. Sharing Experiences in Developing Academic Programmes. Workshop: Academic Programme development and accreditation. BUSE FSE Boardroom. 25 April 2025
- Dziva, D. Assessing Science Practical Work & Experiments. Staff Development Workshop – Formative assessment as a tool for enhancing students’ performance. B and P Study Centre, Chitungwiza, Harare. Thursday 10 April 2025
- Dziva, D. The importance of aligning synopsis, the course aims and objectives, and course evaluation/assessment. Workshop: Enhancing examination integrity and management: Best practices for academic staff. BUSE FSE Boardroom. Thursday 20 March 2025
- Dziva, D. Heritage-based Education 5.0 (HbE 5.0) and innovative teaching. Workshop: Foundations of Transformative Teaching in the University. BUSE, Room C02, Main Campus. 18th September to 20th September 24
- Dziva, D. Curriculum Design. Workshop: Foundations of Transformative Teaching in the University. BUSE, Room C02, Main Campus. 18th September to 20th September 24
- 2024. participated in a BUSE Strategic Plan Workshop, ZIPAM, Darwendale.
- 2021, Teacher Education and School Curriculum Harmonisation. National Workshop, Mutare. Dziva, D.
- 2019, participated in a BUSE Strategic Plan Workshop, ZIPAM, Darwendale.
- 2018, participated in a ZimCHE-organised workshop on the Minimum Body of Knowledge and Skills (MBKS) for curriculum studies university programmes in Masvingo.
- 2017, attended the “University of Zimbabwe Quality Assurance Training Workshop”.
- 2011, “Essentials of Classroom Teaching.” Presented at the Applied Science Education Workshop, Bindura.
Faculty development and mentoring activities.
- 15 July 2025, Components of a Postgraduate Research Proposal. Reflexive Dialogues and Scholarly Praxis, Online
- 2024, Review of Related Literature, Online
- 2023, Compiling a research proposal. Online
- 2022, Selecting a Research Approach. Online
- 2017, “Preparing for Applied Science Education.” Presented at Bindura University of Science Education
- 2012, “Results Based Management System for academic staff.” Presented to Faculty of Science Education Academic staff, Bindura
- 2011, “Student preparation for ASE/Practicum.” A workshop for mentors was held at St Alberts’ High, Mashonaland Central
External Service & Professional Engagement:
- ZIMCHE Peer Reviewer (Thought Leader) (2021-2024): Conducted peer reviews of academic programmes for higher education institutions, ensuring compliance with national accreditation standards. Contributed to national curriculum harmonization efforts. Participated in UNESCO Greening initiatives.
- External Examiner(2023-present): Zimbabwe Open University, Faculty of Education, Department of Teacher Development- Teaching Practice
- External Examiner Botho University, Faculty of Health and Education(2023-present)-External Examiner
- External Examiner (2012): University of Zimbabwe Department of Teacher Education
- Workshop Facilitator (2025): B & P Group of Schools, Harare
Resource Mobilisation and Community Outreach:
Successfully secured external funding totalling approximately US$200,000 equivalent through various grants and awards.
- Judy Mwenje, Dziva Daimond, Chiparausha Blessing and Zinyeka Gracious. School Improvement Grant, Beit Trust of £28,000 (Grant awarded in 2023).
- Mpofu Vongayi, Norman Rudhumbu, Dziva Daimond, Maroni Nyikadzino, Zinyeka Gracious, Chinhara Henry, Mandoga Edward, Judy Mwenje. Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Grant of USD $150,000. (Grant successfully awarded, September 2019).
- Dziva, D. Erasmus STETTIN PhD studies direct support of €18,000 (Grant awarded in 2013)
- Dziva, D., Muvindi, I., Zuvalinyenga, D., Kusure, L.P. Research, Cluster research grant, Bindura University of Science Education; 2012-2013 Principal Researcher for research into Pre-service student teachers’ attrition rates under the VODL program. The research grant was worth US$2 500.00
- Conducted professional development workshops for teachers, like the B & P Group of Schools, Harare.
- Participated in the hosting of a UNESCO-funded capacity development workshop for STEM education lecturers from colleges and universities in Zimbabwe to improve capacity in STEM subjects (2019); Contributed to educational policy discussions at local and national levels.
Faculty of Science Education
- About the Faculty
- Department of Curriculum and Educational Management Studies
- Department of Educational Foundations
- Department of Educational Technology
- Department of Science and Mathematics Education
- Postgraduate Studies by Research
- Dean’s Honour List
- MOUs and partnerships
- Teacher Capacity Development Programme – Enrolled Candidates
