By Staff Reporter
MASVINGO — The 20th Great Zimbabwe University’s 20th graduation ceremony, scheduled for tomorrow, September 7, has been postponed due to heavy rains, which also damaged the graduation venue.
The ceremony, which was set to be presided over by the President and Chancellor of all State Universities, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been moved to Friday, September 23.
In a notice from the Office of Public Relations, the University stated that the decision was made for the safety of graduands, parents, staff, and stakeholders.
“Great Zimbabwe University wishes to advise all graduands, parents, guardians, and stakeholders that the 20th Graduation Ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, 7 October 2026, has been postponed to Friday, 23 October 2026.”
“The decision follows the severe devastation caused by the sudden storm that affected Masvingo last night, resulting in significant damage to the city, particularly to the graduation venue and surrounding infrastructure. The postponement has therefore been made in the interest of the safety and well-being of all graduands, their families, guests, staff, and other stakeholders.”
Preliminary reports from the initial assessments paint a grim picture of the trail of destruction left by the large hailstones and strong winds. Widespread damage has been recorded across residential areas and critical city infrastructure.
The hailstorm, described by some residents as one of the worst in recent memory, targeted a range of property. Multiple homes have had entire roofs blown off, leaving families without shelter against the elements.
Numerous cars suffered severe damage, with windscreens and windows shattered by the large hailstones. Many solar panels, essential for electricity during ongoing power outages, were broken or rendered inoperable. The storm also caused widespread breakage of windows and windowpanes and the destruction of sliding gates.
