Power relations in Universities: " We and Them"

According to Monash University, at a university, professional relationships between staff and students which facilitate learning, research and the exchange of ideas should be facilitated and encouraged. 

The purpose of this procedure is to explain the expectations of staff members with respect to their dealings with students, including relationships with students. 

The nature of the student / teacher relationship or student / supervisor relationship imposes particular responsibilities and duties on the staff member. 

Because of the staff and student roles, a staff member has power over a student even if students are of a similar age to the staff member. 

Nust building (picture by Radio dialogue)

Staff must ensure that they exercise this power in a respectful and fair manner, and that they avoid sexual harassment,bullying, favoritism and exploitation. 

It is a norm among most Universities that when things turn sour the administrators distance themselves from all activities and blame the lecturers and students for the errors that should have been taken care of by the managment.

" We will pay them once Their students have payed fees", "They should tell their students to pay fees on time so that they get their pay in time", Their students owe the Institution a lot of money", these are common saying or phrases uttered by the NUST administrators.

You wounder why the administrators tend to distance themselves from the academics and students.

A University needs a united front that will stand firm and work jointly for the betterment of the Institution.

According to one Academic, Lecturers must stand with their students against management and against the police – the students who fought against the introduction of tuition fees are the same ones standing with staff on picket lines: we owe our students far more than our livelihoods.

Money an Power are two political aspects that can turn the world round and cause a lot of violence. Power and money should be controlled so that student's wellbeing is not trampled one "when the elephants fight"

Stay tuned for more political updates from NUST. Catch you later.

 read more on these issues at:
http://www.radiodialogue.com/nust-lecturers-reject-university-pay-proposal-strike-continues/

 http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-local-byo-64470.html

http://www.chronicle.co.zw/nust-lecturers-go-on-strike/

 http://www.chronicle.co.zw/nust-students-demand-end-to-lecturers-strike/ 

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/dec/09/lecturers-students-preserve-right-protest

www.communicationcache.com/.../power_and_conflict_in_the_student-t...

http://www.adm.monash.edu.au/workplace-policy/conduct-compliance/staff-student-relationships.html 

Why should students pay for events on campus

Nust students who attended last year's event ( picture from Southern eye)

It is amazing how NUST handles social activities for students.

Imagine paying for attending the only social pageant made available for students.

some students felt it was the Institutions mandate to make the event free since it did not offer the services they have promised students.  

One student said It is pointless for them to make us pay since they do not even give the contestants worthy prizes.

Bathabile Dlamini one of the Miss Nust pageant winners said: " It is so boring to receive a funny, small hamper with nothing worth the effort and money we part with for  our modeling career." " This demotivates students from participating in these pageants organised by NUST." 

She added that at times as a student you wounder where the money they collect from students as entrance fares is going.

However, some students refused to enter the pageant for free cioting that it is a way of raising funds for the SRC to carter for students wellfare as it is common knowledge to the NUST community that there is no money to carter for all the needs of students.

Mark Ndlovu , a student close with the SRC said there is nothing for free and the reasons his fellow colleagues gave did not hold any water as they seemed unrealistic.

" Am against free things," said Ndlovu " We need money so that if students break the Institution property funds are ready to carter for all the costs and besides money is needed to organise these events and NUST does not have extra cash to use on student entertainment why not channel these funds for education purposes," Ndlovu added.

Some remained curious as they thought such moves were a means of defrauding them of their hard earned cash by the NUST SRC and the organiser of the pageant.

"Hahaha, they only want our money so that they use it on their women and other luxuries," said another student who requested anonymity " I will never fall for their stupid games."

The same questions remain unanswered where is the money going?

Who is benefiting from this money?

What is the SRC doing to communicate such issues with the students?

Is this the kind of body students want to represent them?

Well folks who knows maybe you are the answer to all the questions students have.

last year's miss NUST contestants (picture from Southern eye)

http://bulawayo24.com/sitemap/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-16420-article-Senior+official+%27attempts%27+to+fraudulently+withdraw+Nust+funds.html
http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-entertainment-sc-local-byo-44824.html
http://www.southerneye.co.zw/2014/03/24/miss-nust-2014-pictures/

Is the extra fees for students on attachment justified

picture from Facebook

THE National University of Science and Technology (Nust) has set stringent conditions for students who have not paid registration fees and warned they would be forced to repeat. - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-11953.html#sthash.zUu8QiLg.dpuf

It has been an issue amongst most students at NUST, they site the fact that they cannot pay more fees when they are not at school.

Most students are attached in places away from their homes and they need money for their wellbeing  in foreign lands.

Carlos Khumalo said we have high rentals and the institution expects us to pay exorbitant fees

He added that: " we pay for internet, sports levy and bus levy whilst we do not use all that and an extra fare for industrial attachment. At times you wounder what all that fees is for they should take into cognisance that most students are struggling to make ends meet as everything is expensive and most attachment places do not pay much".

Another student said the institution is trying by all means to raise funds for its upkeep since it is common knowledge that NUST is bankrupt.

"It is absurd that an institution as big as this one does not care for their students on attachment, why not let those on attachment pay reasonable fees not high fees as they will be away from school, ." said Ngonizashe Muringani.

Where is this money going as students on attachment do not receive any lectures from NUST?

 

Why do students pay for things they will not benefit from?

What kind of institution is NUST that does not consider the hardships students face on attachment?

Is the extra fees and other levies that students on attachment are paying justified?

What is the SRC doing to address such issues?

 http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-39772.html
http://mulingomichelle.blogspot.com/2015/02/blog-post.html
http://mulingomichelle.blogspot.com/2015/02/students-representative-council-src.html 

Miss Nust Postponed

Miss NUST picture from facebook

The Miss NUST pageant has been postponed for three times in a space of a month which leaves most students questioning if the event will be held this year.

This has led to most students who wanted to model to join other pageants  like the Miss Professional since NUST has nothing better to offer its students who are into modelling.

This is seen by most students as an issue to do with mismanagement of funds by the administrators.  The students felt that the administrators are directing the funds meant for the pageant into their own use.

Bathabile Dlamini, a model from NUST said " at times you really ask yourself if they do these events just to please the students or its a mandate," " the tokens we got last year where so embarrassing to even tell people about and they were the same across all participants who won. It is quite disturbing that an institution as big as NUST would reward it's winners with such gifts".

During the Sports events, it is a norm that those who win are given prize money but this time it was a different story as no one got a cent and where even given half cooked food which made a lot of the students sick.

"I do not know what they had put in their food but I got sick after that we where never given our prize money after winning imagine how these guys are, apa I had no bus fare," said Sinqobile Tshandu.

The question then is "WHERE IS THE MONEY GOING". These events are included in the University budget prior to the commencement of the semester.

One student said it is not surprising that this event has been postponed and postponed, it shows how the administrators do not care about students social life and educational life as they are docile when it comes to issues to do with students well-being on campus.

What sort of Administration is there at NUST? Why is it that they turn a blind eye to student satisfaction, in terms of social, educational and Entertainment.

The unfinished buildings, crowding in classes,small library, slow or no Internet, No air conditioning, not enough accommodation, constant power cuts, this is the life of a student at NUST.

picture from facebook

http://www.wherevent.com/detail/Rotaract-Club-of-Miss-Professional-2015
https://www.facebook.com/events/1410709822565647/
https://www.facebook.com/events/785653298195141/

NUST SRC demonstrate against the change in dates for the sim-break

This afternoon, at the Delta building, students and SRC members where demonstrating aginst the change in sim-break dates which they said is a violation to their rights as no communication was made prior to the changes.

screenshot showing change in dates by michelle

The SRC took this as their mandate to actually go out and ask what students feel about the date changes.

A student who requested anonymity said that NUST administrators were handling the University as their homes.

She added that this is not good as it further destroys the relations between the administrators and students.

When interviewed Shadowlit Ndou said"there are no demonstrations here we are just talking to the students to get their views about the sudden change in sim-break dates. We can never hold a demonstration we do our things peacefully"

Another student Andile khumalo said this was a good initiative by the SRC even though they are not reproachable as they also have their shortcomings.

Universe Magadzire also commended  the work of the SRC by engaging the students in their busy schedules.

She added that: "If only the administrators would follow suite and engage students about issues to do with their well-being it would ensure good relations on campus" 

The institution administrators should by all means involve their subjects before making decisions as it is most students have already told their parents about the break days to tell them about the change in dates, parents will think that students are lying said Linketsang Moyo.

In future relations should not be sour between the administrators and their subjects they should be strong so that the University is worldly recognised fro being the best as mutually beneficial relations are nurtured and maintained for the well- being of the Institution.

letter to the students after the demonstration

Nust Lecturers Still Waiting For 13th Cheque

THE National University of Science and Technology (Nust) and its lecturers, under the umbrella of the Nust Educators’ Association (Nusteda) on Friday reached a stalemate on the issue of payment of bonuses, with the matter being referred to an independent arbitrator.

Two weeks ago, Nust lecturers joined other State university lecturers on a nationwide strike demanding payment of their February salaries and December 2014 bonus.

NUST campus picture by michelle

However, Higher and Tertiary Education minister Oppah Muchinguri quickly intervened and the lecturers were paid February salaries before they returned to work.

The bonus was, however, not paid leaving Nust lecturers disgruntled.

On Friday, the matter was taken before a labour officer of conciliation, where Nust was represented by Biggy Ngwenya from the human resources department, while Nusteda was represented by its lawyer Kossam Ncube and the whole executive led by Alois Muzuwe.

However, the parties failed to agree and the matter was referred to an independent arbitrator.

“It’s true the matter had gone for conciliation before a labour officer where both parties were to present their views so that they reach a settlement, but it failed and was referred for arbitration,” Ncube said.

“Initially there were two matters which had been taken for conciliation, that of the February salaries and bonus.

“However, the February salaries were paid, leaving the bonus outstanding.

“When we went for conciliation, we insisted that bonuses should be paid because they were due since payslips were dispatched, but the money was not deposited.”

Ncube said Nust indicated they could not pay the bonuses since the institution relied on government funds, which were said would be staggered without giving a timeframe.

“We told them that we could not accept such a position where lecturers have to wait indefinitely for their bonus,” he said.

“Having reached that stalemate, the matter was referred for arbitration by an independent arbitrator.”

Last month, State university lecturers countrywide clashed with the government over the late payment of their January salaries and outstanding bonuses.

The government only paid their January salaries in mid-February.

According to Southern eye, early this month, Higher and Tertiary Education deputy minister Godfrey Gandawa said bonus payments had been staggered, starting with the payment of University of Zimbabwe lecturers with the rest to receive theirs as and when funds became available. 

This has an impact on the students marks as they might go to the exams with little or no course mark as Lecturers are reluctant to teach without receiving their bonuses which are long over due.

The government should therefore devise a method that will benefit both the student and Lecturer. Students argue that they did their part way before schools commenced, thus they deserve quality education without any hindrances.

National politics always have an impact on the students as they are the ones who are mostly affected.

 more stories to read around

http://www.zimeye.com/lecturers-strike-no-more-claims-muchinguri-kashiri/ 

http://www.zimeye.com/breaking-news-uz-students-stage-demo-over-striking-lecturers/ 

http://www.zimeye.com/breaking-news-uz-lecturers-launch-massive-strike/ 

Failure by NUST to recognise talent

Stanley Mushava picture by Musavengana Hove

Zimbabwe's youngest mainstream columnist Stanely Mushava has published a sizzling poetry collection entitled "In Memory of the Future."

Mushava, a final year Journalism and Media student at the National University of Science and Technology, released the book through his Pro-Faith Press.

"In Memory of the Future" is comprised of 28 poems which deal with a range of issues from international affairs to the immortal questions of love, meaning and suffering, from an overtly Christian perspective.

Mushava easily stands out of the current paste-and-rephrase generation of Zimbabwean literature as an authentic force with his witty, imaginative and deeply conscious approach.

"In Memory of the Future" is currently available as an e-book on Mazwi Books.

"I have been writing this book for the past five years. The issue is not so much about publishing but delivering real content to the people," said Mushava.

"Publishing is easier than ever before and cannot be an accomplishment by itself. I knew I was signed up to a responsibility to give a timeless message to the people and I had to do so in the most artistic and durable way possible," said the versatile young artist.

Mushava is a respected literary critic who has reviewed a diverse range of literature, local and international, contemporary and classic.

.

"'In Memory of the Future' is all about spreading love to all humanity and redeeming the future," Mushava said.

"We are living on the edge of jeopardy. The future of the world is under threat. That's why I make it loud and clear from the outset that Jesus is the answer. I believe in Christ as the centre, stand and work ethic of all that I do," he said.

Prominent author and academic Memory Chirere compared Mushava's work to English greats G.M Hopkins and Lord Byron.

"These pieces remind me of Gerard Manley Hopkins for their dappled energy and musical cadence as they deal with our need to return to the divine because 'The door of mercy is now closing!'And the overriding insistence that: 'Worship is the staircase to heaven,'" Chirere said.

"But sometimes I find here echoes of Byron's Childe Harold's Pilgrimage because of the young man's reflections on travels from innocence to experience," he said.

"Stanely Mushava writes with a triple awareness of God, Country and the Universe. He can create a terrible beauty with these lines until you feel that indeed, 'Love is the title deed to heaven,'" Chirere said.

Funny enough NUST does not even care about it's talent, not to mention that as their student they should somehow applaud Stanley Mushava for a commendable job and for uplifting the institution to greater heights.

Politics at NUST affect even the students who uplift the University name, this is seen by most students as an infringement of academic excellence as the University does nothing to promote these upcoming artists.

for more information contact Musavengana Hove via email at soldierjournalist @gmail.com

 In Memory of the Future is available at mazwi.co/product/memory-future/#

http://www.9ijanews.com/news/mushava-publishes-in-memory-of-the-future 

http://afropages.fr/Africulture/africultures-murmure-mushava-publishes-in-memory-of-the-future 

http://www.topnews.co.zw/entertainment/ 

http://www.amazonherald.com/news/what-book-made-you-fall-in-love-with-reading 

NUST Students petition Dean

IT is a rare occurrence that students go the extremes like petitioning the dean  after recent media reports about mismanagement of Student Representative Funds given t the president two weeks ago rocked the Bulawayo Newspapers.

The students spear heading the signing of the petition expressed how hurt they were about the issue and said the Institution has to do a thorough investigation so that in future money meant for students is not diverted for other uses outside what it is meant to cover.

In an interview with the NUST President, Shadowlit Ndou, he denied the allegations and said that all these rumors were made by his detractors who are out there to tarnish his image.

A student who requested anonymity alleged  that the SRC are now pointing fingers  at one person whilst they are all involved and this is common knowledge that they are now leaking information so as to appear clean.

He added that all the councilors are to blame as they are also thieves, who loot funds meant for the welfare of all students but only angry because Ndou ate the cake which they where also enviously eying.

Therefore for them to be the 0nes mobilising students to say Shadow must go because he is the only thief is utter nonsense. They just want him out of the way so that they have easy access to the funds as he is said to be guarding the coffers jealously.

Shadowlit Ndou( picture from facebook)

However, the case of embezzlement of funds is seen by most students as something that one individual could not have done alone.

Nomathemba Zondo, a part two student said: " how can a person steal funds from Nust just like that , isn't it Shadow has to produce the receipts stating how he used money allocated to him." Besides why dwell on the small issues affecting NUST why not sign a pettition against the institution about Bus money we paid and there still is no bus. Lets join forces and stop bitting our President and use him for the betterment of the University.

Zondo added that the issue on Shadowlit is based on rumors why not question things students have proof on.

It is therefore ideal for students to team up for the betterment of their welfare on campus. Such efforts used to reveal the corrupt tendencies of the student president should be used even to question the University administrators.

What NUST needs is a united students body that will not point fingures at each other but work hand in hand to ensure student's welfare is catered for.

Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."
- See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago.

In a petition at our disposal, the students appealed to the Dean, Dr Kamusoko, to authorise investigations into Ndou's case as required by the student's constitution.

The petitioners said allegations levelled against Ndou do not reflect the aspiration, constitutional values, motives and patriotism of the student union and were tarnishing the image of the institution hence need for an investigation.

"Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."

In relation to the reports in the media on allegations laid against Ndou, the students said the reports portray NUST as a thievery institution where student leaders have developed a culture of getting away with voluminous amounts of money, meant for the students.

"This is not the ideal NUST we all joined Madam Dean. It will be a crime against humanity if such a culture is left unchecked," pleaded the students through the petition.

The students also urged the dean to set up an audit to ensure that due process of the law is followed.
The petition quotes article 11.2 of the student constitution which empowers the Vice President of the student board to inspect and examine all financial records within the custody of the treasurer. They called for the Vice President to be allowed to exercise his constitutional right.

They also called for an immediate return to the constitution and enforce the provisions which punish those who go against the laws stipulated in it.

"In the face of the allegations levelled against our president, Madam Dean we plead for an immediate return to constitutionalism, to return to our valued norms that are enshrined in our constitution, where the students union is bound by love, peace, democracy progress and the elimination of all forms of racism, backwardness, self-enrichment agendas by elected members of the union," reads the petition.

Ndou is alleged to have swindled the students of more than US $3000 after receiving a sum of about US $6000 from the institution, which was transferred by the institution into his personal account.

This is despite the fact that the constitution of student stipulates that the money should be transferred into the Treasury's account.

The Treasurer as the custodian of the account therefore has to ensure that all funds allocated to the SRC are spent as directed by the SRC and the proper and accurate records of all receipts and expenditure are kept.




In a recent interview with Chronicle, NUST Spokesperson, Felix Moyo said the institution has already launched a probe into Ndou's case.

"There is an on-going audit over the matter, let it take its course. This is student politics and students are supposed to govern themselves," Said Moyo - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago.

In a petition at our disposal, the students appealed to the Dean, Dr Kamusoko, to authorise investigations into Ndou's case as required by the student's constitution.

The petitioners said allegations levelled against Ndou do not reflect the aspiration, constitutional values, motives and patriotism of the student union and were tarnishing the image of the institution hence need for an investigation.

"Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."

In relation to the reports in the media on allegations laid against Ndou, the students said the reports portray NUST as a thievery institution where student leaders have developed a culture of getting away with voluminous amounts of money, meant for the students.

"This is not the ideal NUST we all joined Madam Dean. It will be a crime against humanity if such a culture is left unchecked," pleaded the students through the petition.

The students also urged the dean to set up an audit to ensure that due process of the law is followed.
The petition quotes article 11.2 of the student constitution which empowers the Vice President of the student board to inspect and examine all financial records within the custody of the treasurer. They called for the Vice President to be allowed to exercise his constitutional right.

They also called for an immediate return to the constitution and enforce the provisions which punish those who go against the laws stipulated in it.

"In the face of the allegations levelled against our president, Madam Dean we plead for an immediate return to constitutionalism, to return to our valued norms that are enshrined in our constitution, where the students union is bound by love, peace, democracy progress and the elimination of all forms of racism, backwardness, self-enrichment agendas by elected members of the union," reads the petition.

Ndou is alleged to have swindled the students of more than US $3000 after receiving a sum of about US $6000 from the institution, which was transferred by the institution into his personal account.

This is despite the fact that the constitution of student stipulates that the money should be transferred into the Treasury's account.

The Treasurer as the custodian of the account therefore has to ensure that all funds allocated to the SRC are spent as directed by the SRC and the proper and accurate records of all receipts and expenditure are kept.




In a recent interview with Chronicle, NUST Spokesperson, Felix Moyo said the institution has already launched a probe into Ndou's case.

"There is an on-going audit over the matter, let it take its course. This is student politics and students are supposed to govern themselves," Said Moyo - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago.

In a petition at our disposal, the students appealed to the Dean, Dr Kamusoko, to authorise investigations into Ndou's case as required by the student's constitution.

The petitioners said allegations levelled against Ndou do not reflect the aspiration, constitutional values, motives and patriotism of the student union and were tarnishing the image of the institution hence need for an investigation.

"Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."

In relation to the reports in the media on allegations laid against Ndou, the students said the reports portray NUST as a thievery institution where student leaders have developed a culture of getting away with voluminous amounts of money, meant for the students.

"This is not the ideal NUST we all joined Madam Dean. It will be a crime against humanity if such a culture is left unchecked," pleaded the students through the petition.

The students also urged the dean to set up an audit to ensure that due process of the law is followed.
The petition quotes article 11.2 of the student constitution which empowers the Vice President of the student board to inspect and examine all financial records within the custody of the treasurer. They called for the Vice President to be allowed to exercise his constitutional right.

They also called for an immediate return to the constitution and enforce the provisions which punish those who go against the laws stipulated in it.

"In the face of the allegations levelled against our president, Madam Dean we plead for an immediate return to constitutionalism, to return to our valued norms that are enshrined in our constitution, where the students union is bound by love, peace, democracy progress and the elimination of all forms of racism, backwardness, self-enrichment agendas by elected members of the union," reads the petition.

Ndou is alleged to have swindled the students of more than US $3000 after receiving a sum of about US $6000 from the institution, which was transferred by the institution into his personal account.

This is despite the fact that the constitution of student stipulates that the money should be transferred into the Treasury's account.

The Treasurer as the custodian of the account therefore has to ensure that all funds allocated to the SRC are spent as directed by the SRC and the proper and accurate records of all receipts and expenditure are kept.




In a recent interview with Chronicle, NUST Spokesperson, Felix Moyo said the institution has already launched a probe into Ndou's case.

"There is an on-going audit over the matter, let it take its course. This is student politics and students are supposed to govern themselves," Said Moyo - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago.

In a petition at our disposal, the students appealed to the Dean, Dr Kamusoko, to authorise investigations into Ndou's case as required by the student's constitution.

The petitioners said allegations levelled against Ndou do not reflect the aspiration, constitutional values, motives and patriotism of the student union and were tarnishing the image of the institution hence need for an investigation.

"Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."

In relation to the reports in the media on allegations laid against Ndou, the students said the reports portray NUST as a thievery institution where student leaders have developed a culture of getting away with voluminous amounts of money, meant for the students.

"This is not the ideal NUST we all joined Madam Dean. It will be a crime against humanity if such a culture is left unchecked," pleaded the students through the petition.

The students also urged the dean to set up an audit to ensure that due process of the law is followed.
The petition quotes article 11.2 of the student constitution which empowers the Vice President of the student board to inspect and examine all financial records within the custody of the treasurer. They called for the Vice President to be allowed to exercise his constitutional right.

They also called for an immediate return to the constitution and enforce the provisions which punish those who go against the laws stipulated in it.

"In the face of the allegations levelled against our president, Madam Dean we plead for an immediate return to constitutionalism, to return to our valued norms that are enshrined in our constitution, where the students union is bound by love, peace, democracy progress and the elimination of all forms of racism, backwardness, self-enrichment agendas by elected members of the union," reads the petition.

Ndou is alleged to have swindled the students of more than US $3000 after receiving a sum of about US $6000 from the institution, which was transferred by the institution into his personal account.

This is despite the fact that the constitution of student stipulates that the money should be transferred into the Treasury's account.

The Treasurer as the custodian of the account therefore has to ensure that all funds allocated to the SRC are spent as directed by the SRC and the proper and accurate records of all receipts and expenditure are kept.




In a recent interview with Chronicle, NUST Spokesperson, Felix Moyo said the institution has already launched a probe into Ndou's case.

"There is an on-going audit over the matter, let it take its course. This is student politics and students are supposed to govern themselves," Said Moyo - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

Students at NUST have petitioned the dean of students over allegations that Students Representative Council (SRC) Leader, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, abused funds meant to cater for the students who attended President Robert Mugabe's birthday party in Victoria Falls two weeks ago.

In a petition at our disposal, the students appealed to the Dean, Dr Kamusoko, to authorise investigations into Ndou's case as required by the student's constitution.

The petitioners said allegations levelled against Ndou do not reflect the aspiration, constitutional values, motives and patriotism of the student union and were tarnishing the image of the institution hence need for an investigation.

"Ordinance No. 30 (AMENDED 2006), deals with the rules of student conduct and Chapter 3, Section 1, Sub-section 4 makes it explicit that, the actions of any student, reasonably likely to be harmful to the interests of the University, members of the University Staff and Students shall be investigated by the university," reads the petition. "Madam Dean, the allegations levelled against our president are not of any good to our institution, honestly there is a need for an investigation."

In relation to the reports in the media on allegations laid against Ndou, the students said the reports portray NUST as a thievery institution where student leaders have developed a culture of getting away with voluminous amounts of money, meant for the students.

"This is not the ideal NUST we all joined Madam Dean. It will be a crime against humanity if such a culture is left unchecked," pleaded the students through the petition.

The students also urged the dean to set up an audit to ensure that due process of the law is followed.
The petition quotes article 11.2 of the student constitution which empowers the Vice President of the student board to inspect and examine all financial records within the custody of the treasurer. They called for the Vice President to be allowed to exercise his constitutional right.

They also called for an immediate return to the constitution and enforce the provisions which punish those who go against the laws stipulated in it.

"In the face of the allegations levelled against our president, Madam Dean we plead for an immediate return to constitutionalism, to return to our valued norms that are enshrined in our constitution, where the students union is bound by love, peace, democracy progress and the elimination of all forms of racism, backwardness, self-enrichment agendas by elected members of the union," reads the petition.

Ndou is alleged to have swindled the students of more than US $3000 after receiving a sum of about US $6000 from the institution, which was transferred by the institution into his personal account.

This is despite the fact that the constitution of student stipulates that the money should be transferred into the Treasury's account.

The Treasurer as the custodian of the account therefore has to ensure that all funds allocated to the SRC are spent as directed by the SRC and the proper and accurate records of all receipts and expenditure are kept.




In a recent interview with Chronicle, NUST Spokesperson, Felix Moyo said the institution has already launched a probe into Ndou's case.

"There is an on-going audit over the matter, let it take its course. This is student politics and students are supposed to govern themselves," Said Moyo - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-education-byo-64280.html#sthash.l00sCHTB.dpuf

The future of Universities with the reintroduction of the National Youth service

Recently the President of Zimbabwe announced the reinstatement of National service for all youths in the country. This is seen by most youths as an infringement on their right to education as it is seen to be compromised with the re-introduction of National service.

Being a youth in Zimbabwe is seen by many students as a source of synonym of desperation and decadence and not a source of pride. Violence, crime and prostitution are tags associated with youths.

The National Youth Service is a programme of the Zimbabwean government for Zimbabweans of ages 10 to 30. It was authorized by the 1979 National Service Act, passed by the government of Zimbabwe Rhodesia, and later re-established in  Zimbabwe in 2001 under the presidency of Robert Mugabe.

Inside the Third Chimurenga, a book used by the National Youth Service

Its stated purpose is to "transform and empower youths for nation building through life skills training and leadership development"t.The National Youth Service has been condemned in the West and in Africa for gross human rights violations on behalf of the ZANU-PF party. Within Zimbabwe the graduates of the service are known pejoratively as green bombers after the fatigue uniforms they wear and more recently as the Youth Brigade.

Youths fear being tagged as spies when they undergo these youth national service programs. It becomes even hard for them to get employment as even employers tend not to employ people with such background.

According to a story published in Zimeye  many students after attending the trainings are seen as outcasts and threats in the society as even their families do not trust them anymore.

MDC-T spokesperson Obert Gutu in the Newsday said: “They are not bothered one iota about the collapsing economy. Mugabe craves for political power as an end in itself. Everything else is secondary. What they want now is to indoctrinate the youngsters with toxic propaganda aimed at the deification of Mugabe. At this rate, Mugabe will fast surpass Kim Jong-un of North Korea as the world’s most notorious dictator.”

Political analyst Takura Zhangazha once said: “The track record of the national youth service programe isn’t one that has been coherent or organised, but seen as a move to propagandise young Zimbabweans on issues Zanu PF feel are important.”

National youth service on parade (Picture by Kudakwashe Hunda)

Despite manipulations by the ruling Zanu-PF government, the National Youth Service is provided for by the Zimbabwe National Service Act of 1979, later legalised in 1999, creating the it as an important component in youth development. - See more at: http://www.zimeye.com/zimbabwe-graduate-or-spy/#sthash.j6LyB878.dpufAccording to previous media reports, the  implications of the youth militia training for Zimbabwe is said to be serious indeed.  The legitimacy of providing politically partisan and military training to tens of thousands of youths every year must be questioned. 

Zimbabweans argue that against which enemy is this enormous “reserve force” of teenagers to be deployed? To date their targets have been their fellow Zimbabwean citizens, particularly those perceived to support the MDC.


The social fabric has been deliberately destroyed through encouraging part of the nation’s youth to commit terrible crimes against their fellow citizens with impunity.

Even if youth militia training were to stop tomorrow, it would leave Zimbabwe with a tough legacy. Our youths have been turned into vandals and have become a lost generation in the process. The task of reintegrating youth militia into the very communities they have victimised is as necessary as it is daunting.

According to Zimbabwesituation.com  government officials said:“We need to sensitise our youth the doctrine of our party and national pride. The coming of opposition parties has done injustice to our youth who are being influenced to be sellouts and facilitate the decolonisation of the country. So the training will mould our youths and shape them. The need to right mind and to know that this country came as a result of a protracted liberation war and we have to preserve that."

The move to reintroduce the youth militia could ignite fierce criticism and debate from the general public who feel that the national youth service training does not serve the interests of the country but Zanu PF’s interests.

The National Youth Service remains a noble and viable idea towards inculcating national values and ethos. However, its implementation from 2001 to 2009 was marred with loopholes and proneness to politicization which caused more harm than good and will take years if not decades to correct. 

Given these lessons, it would be very premature for the nation to embark on the program without the necessary research, consultation, funding and re-branding. The nation needs to draw lessons from other countries such as Mexico, China and Nigeria that have implemented National Youth Service with differing successes. 

The leadership and all responsible Zimbabweans should guard against the reestablishment of the program for political expediency and ensure that the program safeguards the national ethos through inculcation of such values in the Zimbabwean youth.

for more information on the National youth service reed the following articles

http://www.icicp.org/resource-library/icp-publications/global-youth-service-database/africa-2/sub-saharan-africa/zimbabwe/

 http://www.solidaritypeacetrust.org/205/national-youth-service-training/

http://www.sundaymail.co.zw/?p=21888

 http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html

 https://www.newsday.co.zw/2013/09/03/zanu-pf-youths-push-revival-national-service/

http://www.newzimbabwe.com/pages/panorama8.12596.html

http://www.southerneye.co.zw/2015/03/04/furore-national-service/

http://www.refworld.org/docid/45f147ce20.html

http://www.zim.gov.zw/index.php/component/content/article/157-february-2014/15746-compulsory-national-service-in-pipelinehttp://allafrica.com/stories/201503040661.html

Violence, crime and prostitution are tags now associated with the youths. - See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html#sthash.xhvo7VJy.dpuf

Apparently, being a youth in Zimbabwe is no longer a source of pride, but a synonym of desperation and decadence.
- See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html#sthash.xhvo7VJy.dpuf

President Robert Mugabe recently announced the re-establishment of the youth service.

The last memory Zimbabweans have of the initiative is of a militant Zanu-PF aligned gang infamous for terrrorising the defenseless citizens during election times.

The silence that has followed the pronouncement, a fortnight on is a cause of concern.

One wonders whether the youths in Zimbabwe have a voice.

Apparently, being a youth in Zimbabwe is no longer a source of pride, but a synonym of desperation and decadence.

Violence, crime and prostitution are tags now associated with the youths.

President Mugabe's announcement to revive the Border Gezi brigade serves no use to the youth.

Rather, it further intensifies the calamities of the youths and the political elite seem to enjoy it.
Since the turn of the millennium, the ZANU-PF regime has been hastily implementing populist policies which jeopardise the prospects of the youths.

From the Economic Structure Adjustment Program of 1990, the fast-track land reform and the indigenisation policy, the youth's contribution was never solicited.

One wonders if the President is getting the youth's contribution from Zimbabwe's most mature youth Absalom Sikhosana who is turning 64 this year.

  President Mugabe and his government are in the habit of political grandstanding on issues which determine the country's political and economic well-being.

 In most cases the government's stance has left the country isolated politically and economically much to the detriment of the majority of youths who are financially weak.

Mugabe announced during his birthday celebration that the re-establishment of the National Youth Services was on the cards and the government was already mobilising funds for this cause despite its failure to support noble youth initiatives throughout the country.

The president's announcement is opposite to what is on the ground; several youths are in need of jobs.
University graduates are now airtime vendors and touts.

Youths across Zimbabwe were never consulted on this "noble government project."

Our "representatives" saw it prudent to take youths from doing menial jobs and train them into an instrument for the defense of their regime.

History tells us that the National Youth Service has never facilitated youth empowerment and development.

A culture of violence is cultivated into the youths in the name of patriotic ideology.

Youths in Zimbabwe need to rise above their political differences and denounce Mugabe's unilateral decision to re-establish the National Youth Service.

The president must solve more pertinent issues such as alarming level of unemployment currently projected at over 85%.

Youths are Zimbabwe's posterity and inculcating them with values and ethos to safeguard their nation is a noble cause.
But this should not be confused with defending Zanu-PF's hegemony come 2018 elections.

A National Youth Services which people of Zimbabwe want is one where the youths would be conscientised on progressive ideas such as democratic participation and entrepreneurship.

The call for the establishment of such a project should not emanate from Mugabe or any politician in Zimbabwe who are now known for sloganeering on youth developmental issues only to buy their political allegiance.

 Youths in Zimbabwe have made significant inroads in both economic and political spaces much to the admiration of the nation.

Sydney Chisi and Takunda Chingonzo made international headlines for championing the cause of the youths.
As youths of Zimbabwe, we say are saying "No" to a youth services that nurtures millitarised youths.
Youths of Zimbabwe are not a means to political self-aggrandisement.

They are neither foot soldiers in Zanu-PF's factional fights nor are they the right people to solve Morgan Tsvangirai's political squabbles with the Renewal movement or the so called United Movement of Democratic change.

Youths are the future leaders not pallbearers. In this information age, archaic and far-fetched topic such as neo-colonialism and national security are not our staple food.

With this unprecedented level of unemployment and youths living in abject poverty, it is high time youths wake up from this political slumber and confront the system that is breeding all this suffering.
- See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html#sthash.xhvo7VJy.dpuf

President Robert Mugabe recently announced the re-establishment of the youth service.

The last memory Zimbabweans have of the initiative is of a militant Zanu-PF aligned gang infamous for terrrorising the defenseless citizens during election times.

The silence that has followed the pronouncement, a fortnight on is a cause of concern.

One wonders whether the youths in Zimbabwe have a voice.

Apparently, being a youth in Zimbabwe is no longer a source of pride, but a synonym of desperation and decadence.

Violence, crime and prostitution are tags now associated with the youths.

President Mugabe's announcement to revive the Border Gezi brigade serves no use to the youth.

Rather, it further intensifies the calamities of the youths and the political elite seem to enjoy it.
Since the turn of the millennium, the ZANU-PF regime has been hastily implementing populist policies which jeopardise the prospects of the youths.

From the Economic Structure Adjustment Program of 1990, the fast-track land reform and the indigenisation policy, the youth's contribution was never solicited.

One wonders if the President is getting the youth's contribution from Zimbabwe's most mature youth Absalom Sikhosana who is turning 64 this year.

  President Mugabe and his government are in the habit of political grandstanding on issues which determine the country's political and economic well-being.

 In most cases the government's stance has left the country isolated politically and economically much to the detriment of the majority of youths who are financially weak.

Mugabe announced during his birthday celebration that the re-establishment of the National Youth Services was on the cards and the government was already mobilising funds for this cause despite its failure to support noble youth initiatives throughout the country.

The president's announcement is opposite to what is on the ground; several youths are in need of jobs.
University graduates are now airtime vendors and touts.

Youths across Zimbabwe were never consulted on this "noble government project."

Our "representatives" saw it prudent to take youths from doing menial jobs and train them into an instrument for the defense of their regime.

History tells us that the National Youth Service has never facilitated youth empowerment and development.

A culture of violence is cultivated into the youths in the name of patriotic ideology.

Youths in Zimbabwe need to rise above their political differences and denounce Mugabe's unilateral decision to re-establish the National Youth Service.

The president must solve more pertinent issues such as alarming level of unemployment currently projected at over 85%.

Youths are Zimbabwe's posterity and inculcating them with values and ethos to safeguard their nation is a noble cause.
But this should not be confused with defending Zanu-PF's hegemony come 2018 elections.

A National Youth Services which people of Zimbabwe want is one where the youths would be conscientised on progressive ideas such as democratic participation and entrepreneurship.

The call for the establishment of such a project should not emanate from Mugabe or any politician in Zimbabwe who are now known for sloganeering on youth developmental issues only to buy their political allegiance.

 Youths in Zimbabwe have made significant inroads in both economic and political spaces much to the admiration of the nation.

Sydney Chisi and Takunda Chingonzo made international headlines for championing the cause of the youths.
As youths of Zimbabwe, we say are saying "No" to a youth services that nurtures millitarised youths.
Youths of Zimbabwe are not a means to political self-aggrandisement.

They are neither foot soldiers in Zanu-PF's factional fights nor are they the right people to solve Morgan Tsvangirai's political squabbles with the Renewal movement or the so called United Movement of Democratic change.

Youths are the future leaders not pallbearers. In this information age, archaic and far-fetched topic such as neo-colonialism and national security are not our staple food.

With this unprecedented level of unemployment and youths living in abject poverty, it is high time youths wake up from this political slumber and confront the system that is breeding all this suffering.
- See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html#sthash.xhvo7VJy.dpuf

President Robert Mugabe recently announced the re-establishment of the youth service.

The last memory Zimbabweans have of the initiative is of a militant Zanu-PF aligned gang infamous for terrrorising the defenseless citizens during election times.

The silence that has followed the pronouncement, a fortnight on is a cause of concern.

One wonders whether the youths in Zimbabwe have a voice.

Apparently, being a youth in Zimbabwe is no longer a source of pride, but a synonym of desperation and decadence.

Violence, crime and prostitution are tags now associated with the youths.

President Mugabe's announcement to revive the Border Gezi brigade serves no use to the youth.

Rather, it further intensifies the calamities of the youths and the political elite seem to enjoy it.
Since the turn of the millennium, the ZANU-PF regime has been hastily implementing populist policies which jeopardise the prospects of the youths.

From the Economic Structure Adjustment Program of 1990, the fast-track land reform and the indigenisation policy, the youth's contribution was never solicited.

One wonders if the President is getting the youth's contribution from Zimbabwe's most mature youth Absalom Sikhosana who is turning 64 this year.

  President Mugabe and his government are in the habit of political grandstanding on issues which determine the country's political and economic well-being.

 In most cases the government's stance has left the country isolated politically and economically much to the detriment of the majority of youths who are financially weak.

Mugabe announced during his birthday celebration that the re-establishment of the National Youth Services was on the cards and the government was already mobilising funds for this cause despite its failure to support noble youth initiatives throughout the country.

The president's announcement is opposite to what is on the ground; several youths are in need of jobs.
University graduates are now airtime vendors and touts.

Youths across Zimbabwe were never consulted on this "noble government project."

Our "representatives" saw it prudent to take youths from doing menial jobs and train them into an instrument for the defense of their regime.

History tells us that the National Youth Service has never facilitated youth empowerment and development.

A culture of violence is cultivated into the youths in the name of patriotic ideology.

Youths in Zimbabwe need to rise above their political differences and denounce Mugabe's unilateral decision to re-establish the National Youth Service.

The president must solve more pertinent issues such as alarming level of unemployment currently projected at over 85%.

Youths are Zimbabwe's posterity and inculcating them with values and ethos to safeguard their nation is a noble cause.
But this should not be confused with defending Zanu-PF's hegemony come 2018 elections.

A National Youth Services which people of Zimbabwe want is one where the youths would be conscientised on progressive ideas such as democratic participation and entrepreneurship.

The call for the establishment of such a project should not emanate from Mugabe or any politician in Zimbabwe who are now known for sloganeering on youth developmental issues only to buy their political allegiance.

 Youths in Zimbabwe have made significant inroads in both economic and political spaces much to the admiration of the nation.

Sydney Chisi and Takunda Chingonzo made international headlines for championing the cause of the youths.
As youths of Zimbabwe, we say are saying "No" to a youth services that nurtures millitarised youths.
Youths of Zimbabwe are not a means to political self-aggrandisement.

They are neither foot soldiers in Zanu-PF's factional fights nor are they the right people to solve Morgan Tsvangirai's political squabbles with the Renewal movement or the so called United Movement of Democratic change.

Youths are the future leaders not pallbearers. In this information age, archaic and far-fetched topic such as neo-colonialism and national security are not our staple food.

With this unprecedented level of unemployment and youths living in abject poverty, it is high time youths wake up from this political slumber and confront the system that is breeding all this suffering.
- See more at: http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-opinion-sc-columnist-byo-64110.html#sthash.xhvo7VJy.dpuf

History of Student demonstrations at NUST

Student activism has made an important contribution to the struggle for democracy in Zimbabwe. In the first years of independence students were among the most fearsome defenders of the regime.

Three broad periods of student activism can be identified. The first pro-government period was followed by a violent break with the regime in 1988, the second period saw students declare that they were `the voice of the voiceless'.

With the onset of structural adjustment programmes in the early 1990s, the privileged status of students in higher education was rapidly eroded. The third period emerged after 1995 as student activism converged with the urban revolt that was beginning to shake Zimbabwe

allAfrica.com, 2008 reported that, Students at the National University of Science and Technology in Bulawayo rioted on campus , demanding that Robert Mugabe step down as Chancellor of the University.

2014 Nust demonstration (picure from Nehanda radio)

The demonstration is said to have turned violent when riot police entered the campus and started beating up students indiscriminately. Angry students then turned on one member of the police force who was brandishing a pistol, and stoned him. Several cars and buildings were stoned during the skirmishes. Question then is can the NUST students pull such effective demonstrations now?

2014 demonstrations pictiure by Bulawayo 24

Hell broke lose on campus, as has become the norm, at around 0900 hours when the Bere and Mehluli were captured by the campus Chief Security Officer, Banda while going about their normal business, according to an SRC spokesperson.
They were detained in the university control room and denied access, neither to fellow students nor to their lawyers. The spokesperson said Bere and Mehluli were transferred from the NUST security office at around 1300 hours he believed they were detained at Bulawayo Central Police Station. 
The two leaders earlier in the month retreated into hiding as police were hunting for them following the May 10 peaceful demonstration at NUST in Bulawayo where 53 students were arrested including the student chorister, Themba Maphendeka.  

- See more at: http://www.changezimbabwe.com/index.php/blog-mainmenu-9/1-latest/472-qright-is-mightyq#sthash.JkMXHPpX.dpuf

Hell broke lose on campus, as has become the norm, at around 0900 hours when the Bere and Mehluli were captured by the campus Chief Security Officer, Banda while going about their normal business, according to an SRC spokesperson.
They were detained in the university control room and denied access, neither to fellow students nor to their lawyers. The spokesperson said Bere and Mehluli were transferred from the NUST security office at around 1300 hours he believed they were detained at Bulawayo Central Police Station. 
The two leaders earlier in the month retreated into hiding as police were hunting for them following the May 10 peaceful demonstration at NUST in Bulawayo where 53 students were arrested including the student chorister, Themba Maphendeka.  

- See more at: http://www.changezimbabwe.com/index.php/blog-mainmenu-9/1-latest/472-qright-is-mightyq#sthash.JkMXHPpX.dpuf

read more on the issue:
http://www.changezimbabwe.com/index.php/blog-mainmenu-9/1-latest/472-qright-is-mightyq

http://www.changezimbabwe.com/index.php/blog-mainmenu-9/1-latest/472-qright-is-mightyq

http://www.thezimbabwean.co/news/39831/four-nust-students-appear-before-a-bulawayo-magistrate.html
http://allafrica.com/stories/201310250752.html

http://www.thezimbabwean.co/news/9473/student-activists-arrested-at-nustas-police-launch-manhunt-for-more.html