Mutare Polytechnic newly elected Student Representative Council (SRC) members underwent a four-day leadership induction workshop at Clevers Lakeview Resort, Masvingo, from 5 to 8 March 2026, equipping them with the skills and vision to champion student interests.
The induction workshop, organized by the institution’s administration, was designed to orient the incoming SRC with the policies, procedures, and responsibilities that define effective student representation. Sessions covered student governance structures, conflict resolution, communication strategies, ethical leadership, grooming and etiquette and the critical role the SRC plays in bridging the student body and institutional management.
Officially opening the workshop, the Principal of Mutare Polytechnic, Ms Poniso Watema extended warm congratulations to the newly elected members before delivering a powerful charge that set the tone for the days ahead.
“You are not here to be served; you are here to serve. The ‘power’ you hold is the power to amplify the voices of the quiet, to address the needs of the struggling, and to celebrate the successes of the achievers. Keep your ears to the ground and your ego in check,” said Ms Watema.
The Principal further urged the council to embrace three guiding pillars throughout their tenure: Servant Leadership, Collaboration over Confrontation, and Legacy and Integrity, reminding members that their ultimate legacy would be defined not by the volume of their complaints, but by the depth of their achievements.
Among the themes that resonated most strongly throughout the four days was the importance of inclusive leadership. Facilitators urged the incoming SRC to be mindful of the diverse student population they represent including students with disabilities currently enrolled at the institution and to ensure that no student’s voice goes unheard. Gender equity was equally emphasised, with the council encouraged to champion programmes that support female students, who currently make up a third of the total student body.
In his closing remarks, SRC President, Brian Zindi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the institution’s leadership and facilitators and promised to develop concrete action plans that address student wellbeing during their tenure.
“Four days ago, we arrived here as individuals, today, we leave as an empowered council, united in purpose and resolute in commitment and focus on student wellbeing,” he said.
