Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – Two students from the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) have returned from the prestigious Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) for Student Leaders on Civic Engagement, bringing with them valuable insights and experiences that will contribute to local leadership and community development.
The participants, Wellington Gombarume (Part V Electronics Engineering) and Kelly Gamuchirai Erinyimo (Part III Business Analytics), joined the fully funded academic exchange program from January 12 to February 13, 2026, in Seattle, Washington, and Atlanta, Georgia. The initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of State, is designed to strengthen leadership capacity, civic engagement, and community-driven problem-solving among student leaders worldwide.
The program included academic sessions at U.S. universities, site visits to government institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private sector companies, as well as cultural exchange activities aimed at fostering mutual understanding. Participants engaged with policymakers, engineers, community leaders, and entrepreneurs, exploring democratic institutions, ethical leadership, public service, innovation, and strategies for community impact.
Reflecting on his experience, Wellington Gombarume expressed how
participating in the Study of the U.S. Institute for Student Leaders on Civic Engagement had expanded his understanding of how strong institutions, ethical leadership, and innovation ecosystems work together to drive sustainable development.
“Beyond classroom learning, I studied systems which exposed me to how policy, technology, and community engagement intersect to shape real-world impact.” He said
“I plan to apply these insights in Zimbabwe by strengthening innovation spaces, advancing AI-driven infrastructure solutions, and contributing to leadership models that prioritize accountability and community-centered development. I also hope to collaborate with NUST to promote global exposure and interdisciplinary thinking among engineering students.” He added.
For Kelly Gamuchirai Erinyimo, the program provided a profound immersion into the spirit of civic engagement and volunteerism. She said,
“The Study of the United States Institutes (SUSI) fellowship offered me a profound immersion into the spirit of volunteerism and civic engagement that is so deeply woven into the history of America.”
She added that by exploring the legacy of American grassroots movements and the evolution of their democratic systems, she had witnessed how individual initiative can spark national change.
“This exposure transformed my understanding of leadership, teaching me that sustainable impact is built on a foundation of selfless service and a commitment to community. I returned with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to translate these global civic principles into local solutions through my work with youth.”
Speaking on how NUST had enriched her academic experience through availing this opportunity, Erinyimo said,
“Being a student at NUST was the catalyst that allowed me to process this journey through a critical and analytical lens. The university’s rigorous academic environment and its focus on ‘Thinking in Other Terms’ gave me the intellectual framework to bridge the gap between American civic history and the unique needs of the Zimbabwean context. I am incredibly grateful for how NUST supported me throughout this journey, encouraging interdisciplinary learning far beyond the traditional classroom. This institutional backing has been vital in empowering me to combine my academic training with the insights gained from the SUSI program to drive meaningful change in my society.”
Following their return, both students are now implementing community-driven projects to apply the knowledge and leadership skills gained during the program. Their participation reflects positively on NUST’s commitment to academic excellence and leadership development beyond its campus settings and lecture rooms, while also highlighting Zimbabwe’s growing presence in global civic engagement initiatives.
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