A University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturer has filed an urgent High Court application seeking to stop the institution’s August 15 graduation ceremony, alleging widespread irregularities in exam results linked to the ongoing lecturers’ strike.
Dr. Phillemon M. Chamburuka, representing the Association of University Teachers, wants an independent forensic audit of the 2024–2025 second semester before any degrees are awarded. He accuses the university of pushing ahead despite “serious academic flaws,” including poorly taught courses and compromised assessments.
Court papers cite a confidential Senate report detailing major lapses in teaching, supervision, and examination processes from inconsistent project marking to ignored invigilation protocols and skipped grade moderation.
A memo from the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs acknowledged “serious gaps” in the academic cycle but advised proceeding with exams to maintain the university calendar.
The University of Zimbabwe Students Union and the Council of Social Work have warned that awarding degrees under these conditions could tarnish the institution’s reputation and risk releasing unqualified graduates into professional sectors.
Dr. Chamburuka says repeated attempts to engage university management were ignored, leaving legal action as the only option. The case is pending a hearing date, and UZ officials have yet to comment.
