By Rudo Saungweme

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officiated the 24th National University of Science and Technology (NUST) graduation ceremony and has been installed as the university`s second Chancellor.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony Rumbidzai Matsilela who graduated with a Bachelor of Sciences Honours Degree in Mining Engineering said, “I am happy to be among the first group to be capped by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at our institution. It is a pleasure for me to complete my Degree in Engineering.

“Long back there were very few girls who got admitted in the Engineering Department, but I thank this government for coming up with this affirmative policy that empowers women in Science subjects through the incentives they give to girls. Advanced Level students enrolled in the Science subjects do not pay school fees.”

The graduation ceremony saw Professor Mqhele Dhlodlo being installed as NUST Vice Chancellor.  President Mnangagwa said that universities should focus on value addition on the nation`s development and that the discovery of oil in the country should encourage universities to think outside the box.

President Mnangagwa is on record for his efforts to empower women. Early October this year President Mnangagwa launched the Women Empowerment Bank a move to enhances women`s access to finance at low cost.

Addressing a gathering during the launch of Women Empowerment Bank, President Mnangagwa said that his government will continue to introduce instruments to enhance women`s access to finance at low cost. Adding to say women should participate in all sectors of the economy including the mining sector. “I urge all women in Zimbabwe to be industrious, restless and active in pursuit of the multi-faceted trade and investment opportunities that have become more abound in the Second Republic.”