HH forces Mulungushi University to cancel classes
HH forces Mulungushi University to cancel classes
…to allow him to campaign in Kabwe
Kabwe 20-05-2024
Mulungushi University has cancelled all classes at its main campus in kabwe to accommodate President, Hakainde Hichilema to address students and academic staff as he embarks on a Central province campaign trail.
The president is scheduled to visit the university on Tuesday, 21st May 2024.
The decision, confirmed via a memo from the university, has led to the suspension of classes from Monday, 20th May 2024 to Tuesday, 21st May 2024.”
The memo, signed by university spokesperson Subula C. Siacin states:
“Reference is made to the subject captioned above. Mulungushi University shall host the Republican President, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday, 21st May 2024. In this regard, all classes have been cancelled from today, Monday, 20th May 2024, to Tuesday, 21st May 2024, to facilitate the Republican President’s visit. Lecturers are advised to take note of this change.”
The announcement has sparked a wave of reactions from students who have stated that the disruption of academic activities raises questions about the prioritization of political events over education.
“We understand that such engagements are important. This should not come at the expense of our learning time” said one student.
The visit comes at a time when President Hichilema’s administration is under scrutiny for its handling of higher education policies and economic hardships coupled with massive load shedding.
As the political implications of the visit unfold, it remains to be seen how President Hichilema will address the expectations and concerns of the academic community and what impact this will have on his political standing.
Last Week students at Palabana University in Chongwe rioted against prolonged power cuts leading to injury and property damage.
Mr Hichilema’s visit rides on the back of a visit to Kabwe by his predecessor Edgar Lungu who was practically pushed out of town by heavily armed police.
Analysts feel that Lungu is virtually under house arrest under the UPND administration.