As final-year students prepare to complete their studies at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), a NUST alumna is giving back by launching a programme designed to equip graduates with the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to thrive beyond university.
Founder of the Whole Woman Movement and alumna Ms Rumbidzai T. Chitsa has opened applications for the inaugural Inspired To Inspire Programme: NUST 2026 Edition, a transformational initiative aimed at helping students successfully navigate the transition from campus to the professional world.
Scheduled to take place on 10 June 2026 at the university campus, the programme seeks to bridge the gap between academic achievement and career success by providing participants with mentorship, personal branding skills, mental wellness tools, networking opportunities, and a six-month post-programme support community.
According to Ms Chitsa, the initiative was inspired by the realities many graduates face immediately after completing their studies.
“Graduation is a major milestone, but it also comes with uncertainty. Many young women leave university with academic qualifications but without the support systems, confidence, and practical tools needed to navigate the next chapter of their lives. Inspired To Inspire was created to help bridge that gap,” said Ms Chitsa, a class of 2020 BSc Applied Biology and Biochemistry graduate.
The programme targets up to 100 final-year female students from across NUST's diverse academic disciplines. Participants will engage with accomplished women leaders from different sectors who will share their professional journeys and lessons learned after graduation.
The initiative also aligns with Zimbabwe's Education 5.0 agenda by empowering graduates to become innovative, resilient, and active contributors to national development.
“Our goal is to create a safe and enabling environment where students can learn, ask questions, receive mentorship, and build meaningful networks. We want participants to leave feeling empowered, prepared, and inspired to pursue their aspirations with confidence,” Ms Chitsa added.
The programme will feature guest speakers, life skills development sessions, training on personal branding and the use of artificial intelligence for career advancement, as well as mental health and resilience workshops.
Following the one-day seminar, participants will join a curated online community where they will continue to receive mentorship, coaching, and peer support for six months.
Expected outcomes include improved career readiness, enhanced personal branding and digital competencies, increased mental health awareness, and the establishment of a supportive intergenerational network that extends beyond graduation.
Reflecting on her own journey from NUST student to entrepreneur and mentor, Ms Chitsa encouraged final-year students to take advantage of the opportunity.
“As a NUST graduate, I understand both the excitement and uncertainty that come with completing university. This programme is an opportunity for students to invest in themselves, build valuable connections, and gain insights that can accelerate their personal and professional growth. Your degree has brought you this far; now it's time to prepare for what comes next.”
Applications for the programme close on 9 June 2026.
Interested students can apply through the online application portal: https://forms.gle/QiMHp92EyARvZj6Y8 or contact the organisers on 078 309 9048 for further information.
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