09/06/2026
SRC induction ends with call for ethical stewardship and stronger teamwork
The three-day Great Zimbabwe University Student Representative Council (SRC) Induction and Team Building Workshop concluded with a strong call for ethical financial management, accountable leadership and teamwork, equipping the newly elected council with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively represent the student body.
The final day shifted attention to financial accountability, with Deputy Bursar John Jamela urging the SRC to manage student union funds prudently, transparently and in accordance with the laws governing public finance.
He reminded the council that the resources entrusted to it are public funds and must be handled with the highest standards of integrity, planning and accountability.
Mr Jamela advised the SRC to be guided by both the legal framework governing the management of public funds and the SRC Constitution when making financial decisions, stressing that every expenditure should be properly documented and justified. He challenged members to cultivate a culture of sound record keeping by maintaining accurate expenditure records and producing regular financial statements to promote transparency and accountability.
He also underscored the importance of financial planning, encouraging the council to prepare budgets, establish effective internal control mechanisms and ensure that spending aligns with approved priorities and available resources.
"Be ethical in the management of public funds and be careful whenever you are handling money," he said, warning that poor financial practices can undermine both the credibility of the SRC and the interests of the students it represents.
The Deputy Bursar further encouraged the council to work closely with the University's Bursar's Office, noting that the department remains available to assist the SRC with budgeting, financial planning and compliance with institutional procedures. He also cautioned members against using informal money changers for currency transactions, warning that they risk financial losses through unfavourable exchange rates and currency arbitrage.
At the close of the workshop, SRC President Clayton Katape delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the University management, facilitators and organisers for investing in the development of the newly elected council. He said the induction had broadened the SRC's understanding of ethical leadership, governance, financial accountability, communication and the responsibility of safeguarding the University's values and reputation while serving students.
Katape pledged that the council would apply the lessons learned to provide principled, united and effective leadership throughout its tenure.
Following the presentation sessions, participants shifted from the classroom to practical team-building exercises aimed at strengthening trust, cooperation and problem-solving. The SRC members participated in outdoor activities including ziplining, constructing makeshift rafts and sailing them across the water, experiences that tested leadership under pressure, communication, planning and teamwork.
Held under the theme "Leading Ethically, Living Ubuntu," the induction combined governance and leadership training with experiential learning to prepare the SRC for its responsibilities. Over the three days, presentations focused on institutional governance, ethical leadership, brand protection, inclusivity, financial management, student representation and personal development, providing the council with a comprehensive foundation for effective service.