CUT students ordered to vacate hostels for ZANU PF conference delegates

Hundreds of students residing at Varsity Heights in Chinhoyi have been ordered to vacate their hostels to make way for delegates attending the 23rd ZANU PF National People’s Conference next week.

Varsity Heights, which was commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in October 2024, is an off-campus residence for Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) students, owned by First Mutual Wealth Property Fund. It will be taken over for the duration of the ruling party’s annual gathering.

According to a notice from property manager Rehoboth Realtors, CUT will close for a semester break from 8 to 19 October 2026. During that period, the complex will house conference delegates.

“Please be advised that CUT has scheduled a semester break from 8 to 19 October 2026. During this period the facility will be used to accommodate the upcoming ZANU PF conference,” the notice reads.

“As part of preparations, all students will be required to vacate the facility by 12 October 2026.”

The property will remain occupied until 18 October.

Students have been told to leave their rooms clean and take all personal belongings with them. Those unable to carry their luggage home will be offered temporary secure storage at the complex, with details to be announced.

The decision has sparked discontent among students, who are questioning why they should be moved out for a political event. Some who come from far away say they cannot afford the trip home and will have to find alternative accommodation.

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