By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
GREAT Zimbabwe University (GZU) has postponed its 20th graduation ceremony following a severe hailstorm and violent winds that caused extensive damage across Masvingo City on Monday evening.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was also expected to officiate at the graduation ceremony.
The university had been scheduled to hold its graduation ceremony on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, but the event has now been moved to Friday, 23 October 2026.
The decision comes after hundreds of families and businesses were left counting their losses following the storm, which battered the city last night, damaging houses, offices, vehicles and other infrastructure.
The storm also affected the graduation venue, with reports of extensive damage to structures at the site.
Windows and roofs were damaged, while power lines and trees were brought down, triggering power outages in parts of the city.
Several houses were left exposed after the hail and strong winds damaged roofs and windows, allowing rainwater to flood interiors.
Vehicles were also damaged, while furniture shops and supermarkets reported shattered windows, leaving broken glass strewn across pavements.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, GZU said the postponement was necessary because of the damage caused by the storm.
“The decision follows the severe devastation caused by the sudden storm that affected Masvingo last night, resulting in significant damage to the city and, in particular, the graduation venue and surrounding infrastructure,” the university said.
GZU said the postponement was made to protect graduates, their families, guests, staff and other stakeholders.
“The postponement has therefore been made in the interest of the safety and wellbeing of all graduates, their families, guests, staff and other stakeholders,” the university said.
The university expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the postponement and said further updates would be issued through its official communication channels.
The new graduation date has been set for 23 October 2026, subject to further developments and the restoration of the affected infrastructure.