Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
THE seven National University of Science and Technology (NUST) students who recently returned from the 2026 Erasmus+ Student Mobility Exchange Programme in Latvia and Sweden say the experience has transformed them academically, culturally and personally.
The programme has equipped them with knowledge, skills and global perspectives, and they are eager to share these with fellow students and contributing more to Zimbabwe’s development.
The students returned to the country on June 20 and 21 after spending several months at leading European universities under NUST’s international exchange programme, which promotes academic collaboration, innovation and cross-cultural learning.
Their reflections echoed the message delivered by Nust Vice-Chancellor Professor Mqhele Dlodlo before their departure, when he challenged them to represent the university and Zimbabwe with professionalism, discipline and pride while embracing new cultures and learning opportunities.
Speaking after his return from Uppsala University in Sweden, PhD student Tichaona Majoni, from the Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, described the exchange programme as a life-changing academic experience that exposed him to world-class research, innovation and sustainable development practices.
“The programme was not merely an academic exchange. It was a transformative learning experience that broadened my understanding of global sustainable development, research excellence, innovation and international collaboration,” he said.
Majoni said Uppsala University’s seminar-based teaching model encouraged students to analyse complex issues, defend their ideas and develop practical solutions to global challenges.
He returned home with a Distinction in Global Sustainable Development, a nomination for the Best Presentation Award and Merit grades in Environmental Studies and Political Challenges.
Business Computer Science student Cathrine Phiri said participating in the Erasmus programme had broadened her academic knowledge while strengthening her leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
“The experience inspired me to dream bigger, embrace innovation and build meaningful connections with people from around the world,” she said.
She encouraged young women to believe in themselves and pursue international opportunities.
“Never be afraid to apply for opportunities, even if they seem beyond your reach. Step out of your comfort zone because programmes like Erasmus can transform your perspective and prepare you to become leaders in your communities,” she said.
Information Management Technology student Tanaka Zinyengere described the exchange as a journey of personal transformation.
“During this journey, we all lost something, gained something and returned as new people,” he said.
Zinyengere, who represented international students on the International Students Council, travelled across Europe, attended international technology conferences and hackathons, volunteered at major innovation summits and developed several digital innovation projects.
“There is a need for our students to occupy bigger tables internationally. Student innovation is everything, and NUST has enormous potential to become a leader in emerging technologies,” he said.
For Sidumile Dumoluhle Ncube, studying at Riga Technical University in Latvia reinforced the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Latvia will always hold a special place in my heart. I experienced genuine hospitality, a safe environment and a culture that values education, innovation and excellence,” he said.
He said studying alongside students from different countries had broadened her worldview and strengthened her commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe.
Journalism and Media Studies student Muzingaye Thaka described his six-month stay in Latvia as one of the most rewarding experiences of his academic journey.
Although adapting to temperatures of between minus 23 and minus 30 degrees Celsius and a completely different social environment proved challenging, he said the rigorous academic system strengthened his resilience.
Despite the demanding workload, all five Nust undergraduate students based in Latvia graduated with distinctions.
“As pioneers of this programme at the undergraduate level, we are proud to have represented both NUST and Zimbabwe with distinction. We return with new knowledge, global perspectives and a renewed commitment to champion internationalisation initiatives that will create similar opportunities for future generations,” he said.
Master’s student Aisha Mabika said the exchange programme strengthened teamwork, cultural appreciation and resilience.
“We remained proud ambassadors of Nust throughout our stay. We supported each other during difficult times and ensured that we represented the university with distinction,” she said.
She said the programme had equipped her with knowledge she intends to share with students through her work as a tutorial assistant.
One of the participants, Alfonce Muzatha, was unavailable for an interview as he was attending other academic commitments.
The students also paid tribute to the people who made their exchange experience successful. They expressed gratitude to Claudio Rivera, Head of Collaboration at Riga Technical University, for welcoming the Zimbabwean delegation and facilitating the partnership between NUST and the Latvian institution. They also thanked Maija Ļebedeva, the Erasmus Coordinator at Riga Technical University, for her unwavering support and dedication to the students’ welfare throughout their stay.
The students said the support they received from the university officials, together with NUST management, enabled them to thrive academically while adapting to a new cultural environment.
They unanimously called on the university to continue expanding international exchange programmes, saying such initiatives produce globally competitive graduates, strengthen international partnerships and empower students to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s development.
