Lead Boldly, Inspire Greatly: ZOU Ignites Future Leaders at 2026 SRC Induction Workshop

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has officially launched its 2026 Student Representative Council (SRC) Induction Workshop, a high-impact leadership rollout designed to unify student voices across the nation.

Held at the scenic Glen City venue from 20 -22March 2026, this summit marks the first phase of a comprehensive national strategy. This weekend’s session brings together student leaders from Harare/Chitungwiza, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, and Manicaland. To ensure every regional voice is heard, the university will transition to the Midlands next week to induct the remaining five regional campuses.

Dean of Students, Ms Thandiwe Chivasa stresses a point to student leaders during a team building session at the Glen City grounds

The workshop opened with a clear focus: aligning student leadership with ZOU’s mission to be the premier choice for Open and Distance Flexible Learning (ODFL). Under the university’s guiding philosophy, “Empowerment Through Open Learning,” the Dean of Students, Ms. T. Chivasa, welcomed the council, emphasizing “Shared Values” of integrity and innovation. This was further reinforced by Mr. B. Mutyoraringa, who linked student leadership directly to the national Education 5.0 mandate and the pursuit of university-wide innovation.

Designed as a rigorous orientation, the retreat equips the SRC to navigate the complexities of student governance through three core thematic pillars:

i.  Digital Leadership & Academic Resources

Technical proficiency took center stage with Mr. W. Mufunga providing hands-on training on the MyVista digital platform. This was complemented by Mr. N. Kandira, who provided an overview of modern library services essential for the contemporary learner.

ii.  Institutional Operations & Accountability

To demystify the university’s “inner workings,” a panel of administrative experts provided a comprehensive roadmap:

• Registry & Communication: Mr. T. Mangwere and Mrs. T. Mahobvera detailed the essential backbone of registry procedures and learner support communication.
• Governance & Finance: Mr. L. Tom facilitated a deep dive into financial accountability and budgeting, while Mr. E. Mberi unpacked the Student Affairs structure.
• Protocol & Quality: Ms. R.N.M Tendere established the workshop’s professional atmosphere through opening protocols, ensuring the council understands the standard of service quality expected at ZOU

Leadership Coach Dr Blessing During coach student leaders on public speaking, professional etiquette and conflict resolution

iii. The “Legacy Leader” Series

A major highlight featured Dr. Duri, who led intensive sessions on the “soft skills” of excellence, public speaking, professional etiquette, and conflict resolution. This was bolstered by Prof. G. Rupande’s session on Emotional Intelligence and Mr. F. Matanda’s guidance on official communication channels.

The collaborative spirit was solidified by Dr. J. Tenha (Regional Director), who outlined the vital relationship between Regional Directorates and the SRC. The weekend also featured a symbolic passing of the torch, as the Outgoing Regional SRC President shared “boots on the ground” wisdom with the Incoming 2026 President, who delivered a stirring acceptance speech outlining the vision for the new term.

As the workshop concludes with a Strategic Planning session, the message is clear: whether in Harare or the Midlands, the SRC is one body with one mission.

SRC Northern Regional Campuses Induction Gallery