ZICOSU wins LSU student leader polls, pledges inclusive policies and transparency

ZIMBABWE Congress of Students’ Union (Zicosu) candidate, Ryan Carlos Ncube, who has been elected president of the Lupane State University (LSU) students’ representative council, has pledged to promote inclusivity, improve service delivery and strengthen transparency for the benefit of fellow students and the entire country.

Popularly known as ‘Gustavo’ the 4th year development studies student said winning the post was an honour for him and vowed to use his tenure to prioritise students welfare including assisting those from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds, in line with the university’s location and demographic realities.

According to official poll results, Ncube won the students’ presidency with 215 votes out of a total of 240 cast against his closest challenger, Miss Prudence Moyo, of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (Zinasu) who received 23 votes while two votes where declared null.

“Since Lupane is located in the rural areas, we have to make sure that we bring about inclusive policies that don’t leave anyone behind or disregard their backgrounds,” said Mr Ncube.

He highlighted the institutions ‘work study’ programme as one of the mechanisms that is assisting financially disadvantaged students to support their education and finish their studies.

“This programme helps them manage their studies and fees,” he said.

Beyond internal programmes, Ncube emphasised on close engagement with the Government, which would be key to expanding support for vulnerable students.

He also suggested working with the Ministry of Youth to secure scholarships for students from disadvantaged families who struggle to pay tuition fees.

“As the school representative, I have the capacity to knock on some doors of politicians like members of Parliament, Ministers and central committee members who can assist in some key areas,” said Ncube.

“This might also help in promoting inclusivity policies within the institution.”

LSU being located in the rural areas has over the years had problems with accessing water and electricity, which according to Ncube has been a recurring challenge to the school.

“We would be pleased if the ministry can invest in a solar project as a readily available backup so that students are not negatively affected by power cuts especially for studying,” he said.

The youthful leader pledged to prioritise honesty and proper documentation in engagements with administration and Government departments.

“Running under the theme: ‘Making LSU great again’, I will not be able to make it great alone but with the help of my team of dedicated comrades and soldiers to bring about the change and the vision we have,” he said.

Ncube assumes office as president alongside his deputy, Prudence Moyo for the 2025/2026 tenure.