We, the students at the National University of Science and Technology are greatly concerned by Government's lack of will to tackle the labour dispute with lecturers who have been on job action since the beginning of the year. We note with great concern the reparations caused. The massive exodus of qualified personnel, dwindling quality of service delivery, has led to a fall in the credibility of Zimbabwean education, which at one time was unarguably the best in Africa.  

Lack of Government commitment to address this pertinent issue is a clear indication that education is no longer a priority in this country. Rather the scarce and much needed resources are being channeled to Defense, typical of all falling dictatorships. Education should take priority in any developing society. However, this is not the case with Zimbabwe, we realize the acquisition of sophisticated artillery and military wares is taking precedence. This is typical of a failed state, with nothing to offer to its people but amour itself so as to remain in power through repression and oppression. 

We vehemently condemn the continued attack by the Government on human rights activists, opposition activists, trade unionists and student leaders. This barbaric and satanic act by the Mugabe regime is a clear attempt to disrupt the growing momentum within the pro-democratic forces, which is threatening Mugabe’s reign in power. The abductions, torture, wanton arrests and detentions perpetrated by the state agents should stop immediately. 

We are also deeply concerned with the collapse of the economy. The salaries of the workers have been seriously eroded by inflation to levels way below the poverty datum line. The public service commission has clearly failed to address the problems of civil servants, who constitute the majority of the working class. There was nothing on offer for the workers during the May Day celebrations. 

It is however encouraging to note that the pro-democratic forces are getting stronger, united and there is a renewed vigor to soldier on. We therefore call upon all Zimbabweans to remain forecasted and resilient during these trying times. 

We vow to strike relentlessly.  

Clever Bere
Students Union President NUST
ZINASU General Councillor