The ceremony recognises students who manage to complete their academic studies despite facing very difficult circumstances, such as arbitrary arrest, torture, expulsion and suspension.
This year 11 students were awarded for completing their undergraduate studies. Washington Katema, coordinator of the Zimbabwe National Students Union, was also honoured for completing a master's degree in the Netherlands.
The students all graduated under the flagship program of the Students Solidarity Trust – the Social Safety Net program that provides a cushion for student victims of human rights abuses. Since its inception in 2002, the SST has helped 33 students to complete their studies with alternative institutions, particularly the University of South Africa. Currently it is assisting 64 students, all who have been victimized through expulsions and suspensions. A further 24 are currently studying in the Netherlands, through a scholarship facility provided for students in distress in Zimbabwe.
Awarded this year for completing their undergraduate studies are Mukudzei Shoko, George Makamure, Brenda Mupfurutsa, Desmond Ncube, Edmore Makonjese, Leornard Gwata, Jabusile Shumba, Prizeman Mukundu, Admire Mutize, Tawanda Moyo and Gabriel Gumbo.
The SST also praised the work of three human rights defenders for their immense contribution to the students' movement in Zimbabwe over the last decade, and those who have played a key role in the work of the Students Solidarity Trust.
Janah Ncube, former Director of the Women in Politics Support Unit and the inaugural chairperson of the SST, was given due recognition for playing a critical role in the formation of a social safety net for victimized students, later to evolve as the Students Solidarity Trust.
Jacob Mafume, former Chairperson of the SST, was also given credit for his diligence in legally defending students in distress. Students in Zimbabwe, particularly the Students Solidarity Trust, are indebted to his selfless and invaluable defence of victimized students.
The SST also recognised the work of Shupikai Blessing Chimhini who, as a projects lawyer with the Zimbabwe NGO Human Rights Forum, availed himself tirelessly to mitigate the plight of victimized student activists.
Post published in: News