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Chronicle Writer

THE National University of Science and Technology (Nust) students have elected a female Students Representative Council (SRC) president for the first time since the institution’s inception.

Miss Stacey Mujuru (23), an applied mathematics student, shrugged off competition from other candidates to emerge victorious in the recently held elections.

Miss Mujuru says her election will inspire the girl child to believe in themselves.
“I think this is a big achievement not just for me but for Nust as well, as there has never been a female SRC president at the university. Males have dominated organisations and institutions, and I believe my victory will pave the way for other females to also take up positions of leadership,” she said.

Miss Mujuru said her victory also shows that students at institutions of higher learning understand the national policy of promoting gender equality in all spheres of leadership.

She noted that while there are many challenges affecting the student body, effective communication will be key in addressing them. Miss Mujuru has been actively involved in student leadership, having previously held the position of junior council member during her high school days.

Nust director of communication and marketing, Mr Thabani Mpofu, described the election as a milestone for the university.

“This is a milestone as it demonstrates that Nust students are embracing gender equality and inclusion on campus. Even more exciting to note is that out of the four SRC executive members, three are female that is the president, secretary-general, and treasurer.

“While the new SRC may not have reached 50-50 gender parity, six female students out of 15 members (40 percent is a huge achievement,” he said.

Mr Mpofu said as the new SRC executive takes office, it is important for them to understand that young people are key to national leadership as future leaders.

“Today’s students will be the ones shaping the world and holding positions of power in the future. It is, therefore, important for them to acquire the necessary education and skills to become responsible and effective leaders in their communities and society at large,” he said.

Mr Mpofu also revealed that the election process saw some contestants being disqualified for violating electoral regulations, while another candidate was elected unchallenged.

“On behalf of the Nust Council chairperson and Vice-Chancellor, staff and students, we wish to congratulate the new SRC members and wish them well in their new responsibilities. We encourage fellow students, including those who did not make it in the election, to support the new leadership,” he said.

@nqotshili