http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/735 Library Staff Publications Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:58:42 GMT 2026-06-10T16:58:42Z http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/766 Assessing Knowledge Management Strategies for Commercialisation at Mutare Polytechnic in Zimbabwe Dube-Chibangwa, Pretty; Pasipamire, Notice; Guvava, Nelson Abstract Rationale of the Study: This paper investigates knowledge management strategies for commercialisation at one Polytechnic in Mutare District, addressing the challenge of unrealised commercial benefits from knowledge outputs that could contribute to national GDP. Methodology: The study employed a qualitative approach, using a quota sampling technique to select 12 lecturers and 3 administrators. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to gather data. Findings: Results show that lecturers and administrators have a limited understanding of Knowledge Management (KM) strategies and practices, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. KM practices at the institution are not well-coordinated. Implications: The study recommends that the institution provide training programs to enhance staff and students' understanding of KM strategies and develop clear KM and IP policies to ensure a coherent approach to knowledge creation, management, and commercialisation. Originality: Beyond the Zimbabwean case, the study situates polytechnic commercialisation within global debates on knowledge economies, innovation ecosystems, and the role of technical and vocational institutions in driving entrepreneurship. This makes the findings relevant to policymakers, academics, and practitioners across Africa and other developing regions facing similar challenges of underutilised knowledge outputs. Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/766 2026-02-01T00:00:00Z http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/737 Challenges affecting physically disadvantaged users in accessing library services in polytechnical colleges Chibangwa, Pretty; Chigwada, Joseline Physical differences are part of human life, some are physically disadvantaged while others physically advantaged. According to information from World Health Organization (WHO), 15% of the world’s population has some kind of disability, which in numbers represents more than one billion people. Yet all should have equal opportunities and access to resources despite these differences. Libraries are not an exception in providing equal opportunities in service provision to all whether advantaged or disadvantaged. According to the regulatory and legal framework including the UNESCO Manifesto, United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability, laws on libraries and accessibility of different IFLA members, and other protocols, library services should be provided on the basis of equal access to everyone. This paper focused on the challenges affecting physically disadvantaged users in accessing library services in polytechnics and how these libraries have responded to inclusivity in terms of service delivery. Particular reference was given to one polytechnic. A mixed method approach was used with a sample of 180 respondents that was purposively selected for the study. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to generate data. Findings revealed that the library was lagging behind in offering inclusive services that offer equal opportunities to all users despite physical differences. This has resulted in discrimination on service delivery. The paper recommended library policies on inclusivity and practical implementation, establishment of disability resource centers, as well as a holistic approach from decision makers of the polytechnic and parent ministry to improve service delivery on the physically disadvantaged users. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/737 2025-08-19T00:00:00Z