‘Dream big, but bring those dreams home’

Kuda Bwititi in MOSCOW, Russia

FRIDAY night was no ordinary evening for Zimbabwean students studying in Russia.

Far from the biting Moscow cold, the warmth of home came alive as President Mnangagwa transformed a hotel conference room into a space of inspiration, laughter and candid conversation.

Fresh from attending Russia’s grand 80th Victory Day commemorations, alongside host President Vladimir Putin, President Mnangagwa made time for a deeply personal mission: engaging with the young Zimbabwean minds shaping the country’s future.

The students — a vibrant mix of aspiring doctors, engineers, lawyers and innovators — buzzed with excitement at the rare opportunity to meet their Head of State and Government.

What began as a formal meeting quickly evolved into animated dialogue.

The President, relaxed and approachable, spoke like a proud father at a family reunion, offering heartfelt advice and encouragement.

His message: Dream big but bring those dreams home.

“You are the architects of Zimbabwe’s future,” he told them.

“The knowledge you gain here, especially in science, technology and innovation, will fuel our nation’s growth.”

Pointing to Zimbabwe’s recent strides, like the launch of ZimSat-2 and the upcoming space project, he painted a picture of a country on the rise; one where their skills would not just be needed, but celebrated.

And just when the students thought the session was winding down, with Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Russia Mark Grey Marongwe rising to give a vote of thanks, President Mnangagwa surprised them.

“No, no,” he interjected with a smile.

“We still have time. Tell me everything.”

And they did.

The students spoke candidly about the challenges they faced: financial burdens, scholarship delays and the emotional toll of being far from home.

Many self-funded students shared stories of their families’ sacrifices.

Some worked part-time jobs just to remain in school.

Looking beyond graduation, the students also highlighted their aspirations — and anxieties — about returning                              home.

Many expressed a strong desire to return home, but raised concerns about limited opportunities and a lack of start-up capital to apply their skills.

From medical practices to tech ventures and agribusiness, they were eager to contribute, if supported.

The President listened intently, acknowledging both their struggles and their determination to contribute to Zimbabwe’s development.

One young woman, Laina Nyamuzira, a fifth-year medical student, shared the sacrifice made by her family for her to study in Russia.

“My father sold his farm to raise the money and fund my studies in Russia. Now, both my parents are not employed, and they do not have money for my education.

“I am in my fifth year and I do not know how I am going to fund my studies in my sixth year.

“I work part-time to pay my fees, but the money is not enough,” she said.

The President did not just nod sympathetically — he acted.

Directing embassy officials to address such cases, he assured them: “We will find solutions.”

The gratitude in the room was palpable.

Malachi Nyamukondiwa, a PhD student who is also the leader of the Zimbabwean student community in Russia, perfectly captured the mood.

“Your Excellency, your listening ear shows us that our future matters to you,” he said.

For Caroline Manenji, a dental student, the meeting convinced her to return home.

“I have already started saving for my own practice,” she said, before tactfully pleading for duty waivers on dental equipment.

The President, chuckling, turned to his team: “Let’s see how we can help her.”

And just when the evening could not get any brighter, Honest Mpume Moyo decided to close it with a flourish — a heartfelt poem praising the President.

The room erupted in applause, the students’ faces alight with smiles, especially after the President promised to increase their stipends.

As they left, one thing was clear: this was not just a meeting.

It was a spark, and one that reminded these students, thousands of kilometres from home, that their nation’s leader not only believes in them but is rooting for their success every step of the way.