Published: 7 hours ago

Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) has recorded a decline in student enrolment, reflecting broader challenges facing Zimbabwe's higher education sector.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa capped 3 130 graduates at this year's CUT graduation ceremony, down from 3 545 in 2023. Despite the drop, the institution celebrated a historic milestone, with female graduates (1 573) outnumbering their male counterparts (1 557) for the first time.

A CUT lecturer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, attributed the decline partly to financial hardships, saying many parents were struggling to pay tuition fees, which start from US$750 per programme. "The main factor is lack of resources. Fees are high and many parents are forced into payment plans," the lecturer said.

CUT spokesperson Shadreck Nembaware confirmed the trend, noting it could not be pinned on a single cause. He cited the lingering effects of COVID-19, the mushrooming of new universities locally, and increasing numbers of Zimbabwean youths enrolling in Zambian institutions, which offer less stringent entry requirements.

"Lots of options exist, with Zambia recruiting Zimbabwean students en masse. Some are also heading to South Africa where education is seen as more affordable," Nembaware said.

As more students seek opportunities outside the country, concerns are mounting over the long-term sustainability of local universities and their ability to remain competitive in the regional education market.
- NewsDay