Own Correspondent|THE University of Zimbabwe (UZ)’s Student Representative Council (SRC) has elected Abiona Mataranyika as the president, becoming the first time ever that a female has led the students’ body at the UZ.

A jubilant Mataranyika said her victory was living proof that women can compete with men on an equal footing in all spheres of life.

“I feel very happy to become the first female president at this institution. This uplifts fellow women. It’s high time society realizes that women can also lead any organisation.

“I feel as a woman I have been given a chance to show my capability. However, I cannot take all the credit because it was all team effort. I would not have made it without those who rallied behind my candidature,” an elated Mataranyika said.

Her victory was backed by the Zimbabwe National Students’ Union (Zinasu). She polled 2,500 votes, beating Wilnert Muzaruwetu who was backed by the Zimbabwe Congress of Students Union (Zicosu) and polled only 1,000 votes.

By garnering 2511 votes in the presidential elections, Abiola Mataranyika has set a new record, surpassing the record set by iconic former president Learnmore Judah Jongwe.

The election was held on Tuesday.

Zinasu president Archibold Elias Madida said as a union they were happy for Abiona’s victory.

“We are happy to have won the SRC presidency. For the first time ever, the University of Zimbabwe has a female SRC president. It shows our commitment towards gender equity and women empowerment,” Madida said.