The University of Zimbabwe was said Wednesday to be on the verge of shutting down with seven faculties postponing exams normally due this month because of intermittent strikes by lecturers, compounded by the resignation of numerous support staff.
Dean of Student Affairs Takafira Muduluza told VOA that only four faculties would go ahead with exams this month. Administrative and financial problems have exacerbated the problems at the University of Zimbabwe's Mount Pleasant, Harare, campus.
Food when available is too costly for many students, water and electricity are in short supply, and the sanitation system is not functioning properly, sources said.
A study commissioned by the Zimbabwe National Students Union in May found many students resorting to prostitution or theft to make ends meet.
Project researcher and former student leader Mfundo Mlilo told reporter Patience Rusere of VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe that the institution must be closed so an investigation by the government and the parliament can be conducted.
More reports from VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe...