A Dental Surgery Assistant (DSA) is a trained healthcare professional who supports dentists, dental therapists and oral surgeons in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality dental care. DSAs play a vital role before, during, and after dental procedures by assisting in both clinical and administrative tasks. S/he is a clinical support and specialised assistant who works closely to ensure smooth patient care by preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting during procedures, managing infection control, and providing post-operative support and patient education.

While DSAs are not dentists or assistant dentists, they play a crucial support role in the treatment of patients and the smooth operation of dental practices. There is a growing global movement to professionalize the role of Dental Assistants, recognizing the essential contribution they make to oral healthcare systems. DSAs are responsible for a wide range of clinical and administrative duties that directly impact patient care and clinic efficiency.

Key responsibilities:

• Preparing the dental surgery area for procedures.
• Sterilizing and organizing dental instruments and materials.
• Assisting the dentist during various treatments, such as extractions, fillings, and surgeries.
• Managing patient records and appointment scheduling.
• Ensuring infection control and compliance with health regulations.
• Comforting and communicating with patients before, during, and after treatments.
• Mixing and handling dental materials like impressions or cements.

Skills required:

• Attention to detail
• Manual dexterity
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of dental procedures and terminology
• Understanding of infection prevention and sterilization protocols

In essence, a DSA is the right hand of the dental team, making procedures run smoothly while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and care.

Across the globe, there is an increasing recognition of the need to professionalize the role of Dental Surgery Assistants (DSAs). In Zimbabwe—and much of Sub-Saharan Africa—formal training opportunities for DSAs have historically been non-existent. South Africa stands as a notable exception, where formal education and professional registration for dental assistants are now mandatory. Elsewhere in the region, however, most DSAs continue to be trained informally through on-the-job experience in dental practices. Fortunately, here in Zimbabwe we started this formal training programme as well to catch up with the rest of the world.

While this informal training model may offer practical exposure, it presents significant challenges in ensuring standardized professional competence, clinical efficiency, and consistent quality of care. Dental surgeries are primarily designed for patient treatment—not for structured instruction. Without a formal curriculum, dedicated training time, and sufficient resources, most dental practitioners are unable to deliver comprehensive in-practice training.

To address this critical gap, the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU) was established as the country’s first formal training institution for Dental Surgery Assistants/ Dental Nurses. Dr Farayi Moyana serves as the founder and Academic Director of ZADENU.  He is a highly respected dental professional with a distinguished career in dentistry and dental auxiliary education and a deep commitment to advancing healthcare training in Zimbabwe. His credentials include:

• Former Senior Tutor and Head of the School of Dental Therapy and Technology at Parirenyatwa Central Hospital (1989–1996)
• First trained as a dental therapist at Parirenyatwa Central Hospital and at SaskyPoly in Saskatchewan, Canada.
• Trained as a dentist in South Africa.
• Holder of qualifications in:
  • Dentistry
  • Adult Education
  • Health Teaching
  • Public Health (MPH)
  • Business Administration (MBA)
  • Biomedical Ethics (MPhil)
  • Orthodontics, Dental Implants, and Health Research Ethics
  • Executive Management
  • Doctoral qualification (PhD) in Bioethics and Health Law

ZADENU has graduated over 50 candidates since 2018, all of whom are gainfully employed in Zimbabwe, in the region and abroad.

The Higher Examination Council of Zimbabwe (HEXCO) is a statutory examination and accrediting body like the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) or The Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education (ZIMCHE).

1. HEXCO awards all certificates and diplomas at polytechnics
2. ZIMCHE accredits all university degrees in Zimbabwe 

• ZIMSEC awards all O and A levels certificates in Zimbabwe

Therefore, it’s common cause and logical that if Zim degrees and high school certificates are recognised abroad, it follows that HEXCO diplomas are also recognised

To be eligible for admission into the Dental Surgery Assistant training programme at the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. HEXCO Accredited National Diploma: Minimum Academic Requirements

Five (5) Ordinary Level (O-Level) passes with a grade C or better, including:

• • English Language
  • Mathematics, Science
  • Any other two subjects with a grade C or bettery)e required)l Diploma: ctie 18, all of whom are gainfully employed in Zimbabwe, in the region and abroad.er
  • No limit on sittings
  • No age limit

2. ZADENU In-House ZADENU Diploma

The ZADENU In-House Diploma is meant for those candidates who do not qualify for the HEXCO Accredited National Diploma.

Proof of Ordinary Level (O-Level) passes with a grade C or better, preferably with some passes in English, Maths and Science.

3. Provisional Registration/Enrolment

This is a pathway to the HEXCO Accredited National Diploma for those candidates still planning to supplement their O level passes in order to qualify for registration as a HEXCO Accredited National Diploma candidate. Proof of full HEXCO Accredited National Diploma entrance compliance must be submitted within 1 year.

International Applicants: Candidates from SADC countries and beyond must provide confirmation that a suitable dental facility in their country is available and willing to host them for their clinical attachment or extended learning.

The ZADENU Dental Surgery Assistant programme is a digitally supported, block release training programme that blends theoretical instruction with hands-on practical experience. It is not an online course, but incorporates online tools to complement face-to-face learning.

Programme Duration

• The programme runs over a period of 24 months.
• Weekend face-to-face sessions are held every 3 to 4 months.

Training Components

Formal and non-formal assessments will be conducted throughout the programme.

Practical competency is assessed through:

• Return demonstrations
• Oral assessments
• On the Job Education and Training (OJET)
• Audits
• HEXCO compliance visits and follow up

•  ZADENU Written tests and exams are administered during in-person sessions and at the end of the programme.
• HEXCO examinations are organised and administered on a national level through Harare regional offices.

On the Job Education and Training (OJET)

Students must complete an OJET at approved:

• Dental clinics
• Public or private hospitals
• Dental practices

• Students are responsible for organizing their own practical placements, although ZADENU may assist in securing attachment sites through its network of partner dental clinics on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Potential placement locations include:
  Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Victoria Falls, Bindura, Masvingo, Zvishavane, Chinhoyi, Chitungwiza, Chipinge, Rusape, and Kwekwe.

Compensation During OJET

• Students are not entitled to payment during their clinical attachments unless they are already employed in a dental facility. But currently all our students are being paid on average a stipend of USD120 per month after about 6 months of training when they are deployed to participating private dental surgeries. The competition for paid OJET is stiff and a candidate had to demonstrate mastery of the job fundamentals.

Ethics, Dress Code & Professional Conduct

• All students must adhere to the programme’s ethical standards and dress code during OJET.
• Professional attire must be procured by students at their own expense.

Radiation & Pregnancy Advisory

• Due to potential exposure to dental radiography:

• Pregnant students must not take x-rays or be near x-ray equipment.
• Students who suspect pregnancy must inform their supervising dentist during their OJET.

Note: International applicants must confirm that they have access to a suitable dental facility in their home country for the practical component.

Learning Materials

• Modules and other learning aids—including CDs, DVDs, and digital content—will be provided as part of the course materials.
  • Learning materials are provided as part of the programme
  • Meals are provided during the face-to-face seminars.

The Dental Surgery Assistant programme at ZADENU combines structured academic learning with practical experience to ensure graduates are well-prepared for professional practice. The learning experience is dynamic, hands-on, and supported by both face-to-face sessions and digital resources.

Assessment Methods

• Students are evaluated through both formal and non-formal assessments, including:

• Practical demonstrations (return demos)
• Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
• Oral assessments and VIVAs
• Written tests and examinations during face-to-face sessions and at the end of the programme

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be eligible for one of the following qualifications based on their entry route:

1. HEXCO-Accredited National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting

Graduates who meet the HEXCO enrolment criteria and successfully complete the 24-month nationally accredited training programme will be awarded the National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting, accredited by the Government of Zimbabwe through the Higher Education Examinations Council (HEXCO).

2. ZADENU In-House National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting

Applicants who do not meet the HEXCO entry criteria may still pursue and graduate with the ZADENU In-House National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting. This qualification provides strong foundational knowledge and practical skills aligned with industry needs.

These qualifications will be conferred at the official graduation ceremony hosted by the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU) in partnership with recognized stakeholders.

Graduates holding an accredited National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting (HEXCO) may use their qualification to redeem an appropriate maturity entry option to appropriate degree programmes provided they have a minimum of 5 relevant O level passes and in some cases proof of A level education.

Degree options may include:

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Dental Therapy (Maybe available locally soon). Check the press and internet on a regular basis for updates.
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Dental Laboratory Technology (Currently not available locally but available in South Africa)
• Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (Currently not available locally but available in South Africa).
• Other Health or Science related degrees

This progression allows graduates to expand their professional scope, specialize in specific fields within dentistry, and gain recognition across healthcare sectors.

At the beginning of each 3 to 4-month semester/block/module, students will participate in a 3 to 5-day compulsory face-to-face seminar or Zoom workshop. These sessions are currently held at:

Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU) Headquarters
Glen Lorne, Harare, Zimbabwe

• • Learning materials are provided as part of the programme
  • Meals are provided during the face to face seminars.
  • Wi-Fi to be provided for in class activities.
  • Candidates strongly encouraged to bring own laptop

For candidates traveling from outside Harare and have no relatives in the city, ZADENU offers both short term and long-term limited accommodation on your extra expense, on a first-come, first-served basis at its Domboshava Medclinic facility, located approximately 25 km from Harare CBD.

This facility offers:

• Single and shared rooms
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Own transport into the CBD is required, estimated to be US1 one way trip to our practical training facilities.
• Self-catering facilities.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided.
• The cost of accommodation is not included in the program fees and must be covered separately. Accommodation costs must be paid in blocks of 6 months’ leases, in advance.
• Bedding is provided, but to provide own linen.
• Early booking is recommended due to limited space.

Our accommodation costs: 250US per month sharing or 150US single room

Gates strictly close at 9am pm every evening.

Candidates who fail an exam may apply for one retake.

A second failure may permit an additional retake, subject to:

• A recommendation from the supervising dentist.
• Payment of an application fee ($100–$200 USD).

Each of the 5 modules/blocks consists of the following assessments, tests and examinations:

• A midterm module/block 3 hour written test under examination conditions.
• End of module/block 4 hour written and practical examination
• A candidate who fails the test or exam will be allowed to apply for one repeat. If the candidate fails again they may be allowed to apply for repeat subject to a recommendation from their supervising dentist provided an application fee of 100 to 200USD is paid to the Academy.
• During extended attachment periods candidates will expected to complete and hand in assignments and log books or reports based on a prescribed format.
• International computer drivers Licensee (ICDL) and First Aid training will be a requirement at student’s own cost.
• At the end of the 18 to 20 months programme a candidate is expected to pass a five-hour written paper and practical test covering the whole syllabus.
• An oral examination will be arranged for candidates who are below 50% but above a subminimum of 45%.
• A candidate who withdraws before completing the programme may be given a testimonial letter upon completing at least 10 months of On the Job and Education training.

• HEXCO National Examinations: Held each semester per the official HEXCO timetable.
• HEXCO Accredited National Diploma comprises of about 10 modules spread out into semesters.
• Examinations are offered periodical in blocks of 3 or 4 modules
• The ZADENU In-House Diploma comprises of less modules.
• Further details are provided to registered candidates.

• ZADENU is fully accredited as a training provider by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology Development of Zimbabwe through the Higher Education Examination Council (HEXCO).
• Our registration Number is 1537, copy of our registration certificate can be viewed on the website.
• The programme is further endorsed by the Research Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Dental Association.

Important Notes:

• Professional Registration: Currently, graduates of this program are not eligible for registration with the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (MDPCZ), as there are no existing legal or statutory provisions or obligations for the registration of Dental Surgery Assistants (DSAs) in Zimbabwe.
• Future Recognition: Although formal registration is not yet available, future opportunities may arise for graduates to register their qualifications, should the MDPCZ or other relevant regulatory bodies under the Health Professions Act establish a formal registration framework for DSAs. Efforts are underway to make this possible.
• Employment Expectations: Graduates are responsible for securing their own employment, unless they are already employed during or upon completion of the training program. Based on our past experience all our graduates have found employment, most of them even before completion of training.
• Programme Delivery: All lectures, tutorials, course materials, assessments, transcripts, and certificates are provided exclusively through the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU).

In today’s interconnected world, collaborative linkages are essential for fostering innovation, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the sustainable growth of institutions and industries. Whether in healthcare, education, business, or community development, strong partnerships between stakeholders create a synergistic environment that drives progress and improves outcomes.

Currently we have a working relationship with Eleganz Dental Nursing Training College in Dallas, Texas, USA. More linkages are being explored. The aims of the linkages are as follows:

1. Enhancing Resource Sharing
2. Promoting Innovation and Knowledge Exchange
   3. Strengthening Capacity and Skills Development
   4. Improving Service Delivery and Quality Standards
   5. Expanding Opportunities and Visibility
   6. Ensuring Sustainability and Long-Term Impact

This comprehensive training programme is designed for:

• School leavers in Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region who wish to pursue a formal qualification in Dental Nursing or Dental Surgery Assisting.
• Serving or experienced dental assistants, nurses, or healthcare workers seeking to upskill, formalize their qualifications, and advance their careers.

Our initiative aims to raise the standard and recognition of dental assisting across Zimbabwe and Sub-Saharan Africa, with a long-term vision of building a skilled and certified workforce in the oral healthcare sector.

Programme Structure & Learning Approach

• The programme is delivered on a modular basis, blending theoretical learning with on the Job Education and Training (OJET) in dental surgeries.
• It follows a cost-recovery model, as it currently does not benefit from sponsorship, Government subsidies or external funding.
• Innovative Pedagogy: We utilize a hybrid learning approach that combines:
  • Face-to-face sessions (every 3–4 months, lasting 3 to 5 days)
  • Long-distance and digital learning
  • Formal and non-formal adult education techniques
  • Practical, experiential training and assignments
  • Learning materials are provided as part of the programme
  • Meals are provided during the face to face seminars.

Programme Duration & Certification

• The course runs over 24 months and culminates in the award of a National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting, certified by both:
  • The Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing (ZADENU) for those enrolled on the ZADENU In-house Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting.
  • The Higher Examination Council of Zimbabwe (HEXCO) Accredited National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting.

Curriculum Focus Areas Include:

• Basic Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology & Hygiene
• Dental & Clinical Subjects: Dental Materials, Dental Assisting Theory, Radiology, Dental Health Education (DHE), Chairside clinical assisting, Introduction to dental specialities like prosthodontics, orthodontics, paedodontics, endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery etc.
• Infection control: Microbiology, vaccinology, sterilisation
• Administration: Stock control
• Motivational Theory and Practice: Counselling, community engagement, ethics and health law
• Supportive Skills: Photography, First Aid (outsourced to MARS, EMRAS, or St John Ambulance), Public Relations, Marketing, Health Law, Medical Ethics, Record Keeping
• Digital Skills: Computer Literacy – Students must obtain an International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) certificate before final exams or graduation (training outsourced)
• The full HEXCO Training regulations and Clinical skills audit can be viewed on the website

ZADENU offers two diploma options with different fee structures based on accreditation. Below is a breakdown of the associated costs:

1. HEXCO National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting

• Total Cost: USD 4,000

2. ZADENU In-House National Diploma in Dental Surgery Assisting

• Total Cost: USD 2,800, structured as follows:

Fee payment in both programmes:

• • Registration Deposit: USD 2,000 (minimum required to enrol) for HEXCO programme, USD 1500 for the In-House Diploma
  • Uniform: Approx. USD 150 (mandatory for attachment/OJET unless already employed)
  • Balance: Payable over a maximum of 10 months or negotiated
  • Early Payment Discount: A 5% discount is offered for full payment made before the start of the programme
  • Includes: Learning materials such as modules, CDs/DVDs
  • Excludes: Uniforms and external certifications
  • Please refer to our refund policy below for important details.

Uniform breakdown

1. Uniforms/scrubs about 5 sets. Most students prefer customised ones (finding own tailor) @ about 20US a pair 
2. Protective footwear aka crocs, 2 pairs @ 5US each
3. Headgear @ 5US each, 2 sets
4. Folder/operating manual 10US
5. All other learning materials are provided as part of the programme
6. Meals are provided during the face to face seminars.

Note: Employed candidates may be exempt from wearing the ZADENU uniform during their OJET.

3. Additional Certification Programmes

• Computer Literacy Certificate (ICDL or equivalent): USD 400
• Nurse Aide Training (Optional Add-on): USD 310

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. Below is our official refund policy, which applies under specific conditions:

• Cancellation within 10 days of payment: 25% administrative/handling fee will be deducted.
• Cancellation within 15 days of payment: 50% administrative/handling fee will be deducted.
• Cancellation after 20 days of payment: No refund will be issued.

Important Notes:

• Refunds are considered only upon written request and must be based on compassionate grounds (e.g., medical emergencies, bereavement).
• The candidate must not have commenced any part of the programme, including:
  • Practical training or attachments
  • Attendance (in full or in part) at any seminars, workshops, or face-to-face sessions

All refund requests are reviewed individually and approved at the discretion of ZADENU management. Please ensure you are fully informed before making any payment.