President Emmerson Mnangagwa
By Dickson Bandera
MOSCOW, RUSSIA – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s strong diplomatic and historical ties with Russia, while calling on Zimbabwean students studying abroad to play a key role in driving national development, innovation, and industrialization in line with Vision 2030.
Speaking during an engagement with Zimbabwean students in Moscow on the sidelines of the 80th anniversary commemorations of the Great Patriotic War, President Mnangagwa lauded Russia for its enduring support of Zimbabwe, dating back to the liberation struggle.
“Russia has stood by us since the days of our liberation struggle and continues to be a reliable and strategic ally of Zimbabwe,” he said.
He noted that in 2008, Russia, alongside China, blocked attempts in the United Nations Security Council to impose Chapter 7 sanctions on Zimbabwe.
“That principled stance defended our sovereignty—a gesture we continue to deeply value,” said the President.
Addressing the role of education in national development, President Mnangagwa urged students to see their studies in Russia not as an individual pursuit, but as a mission of national importance.
“Through your studies in this country, we hope you will acquire critical skills to accelerate innovation, industrialization, and modernization, in line with Vision 2030,” he told the students.
He emphasized that Zimbabwe is making significant strides in scientific and technological development, referencing projects such as the ZIMS-32 satellite and the planned ZIMCOM-1 communication satellite.
“With milestones like ZIMS-32 and the upcoming ZIMCOM-1 project, Zimbabwe is advancing into a new era of scientific and technological achievement,” he said.
He encouraged the students to remain connected to their heritage and serve as ambassadors of Zimbabwean values abroad.
“Be global citizens with Zimbabwean hearts—rooted in our heritage, guided by integrity, and driven by a strong work ethic,” he said.
“Represent Zimbabwe with pride, live abroad with integrity, and let your conduct reflect the honesty and humility that define us.”
President Mnangagwa also acknowledged the challenges that students face when studying abroad but encouraged them to view these as opportunities for growth.
“Studying abroad comes with challenges, but these experiences must build your resilience, adaptability, and strength of character,” he said.
“I commend your voluntary spirit, especially those assisting with protocol and translation services for official delegations—this is the Zimbabwean spirit in action.”
He also addressed long-standing student concerns, confirming that the Government is actively working to address their needs.
“Your concerns and appeals have reached me. Government has heard you and will do its best to address them accordingly.”
Highlighting the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding with Russia on mutual recognition of qualifications, the President said the agreement will pave the way for practical training opportunities in Zimbabwe for medical and other students.
“A memorandum of understanding on mutual recognition of qualifications now enables practical training for our medical students and will soon extend to other disciplines.”
President Mnangagwa closed his address by reminding students of their patriotic duty.
“You carry an obligation to serve your motherland. Always act in national unity, for you are Zimbabwe’s ambassadors to the world.
“Vision 2030 is not a dream—it is a roadmap. You are the fuel that will drive us toward that destination.”
