06/11/2024
*"ZERO BALANCE OR NO EXAMS FOR FINAL YEAR STUDENTS" - (TVTC) MANAGEMENT.
By
November 6, 2024 -
In a rather surreal moment than shocking announcement that left many reeling, Technical and Vocational Teachers' College (TVTC) Management declared that final year students with outstanding balances will not be allowed to sit for their exams.
This revelation sparked a mix of emotions, ranging from despair to desperation, among the affected students.
As the college principal, Mr. Harrison Phiri, addressed the student body, the air was initially thick with anticipation. He began by acknowledging the struggles faced by students with financial arrears, offering a glimmer of hope. However, his words quickly turned stern as he emphasized that final year students must settle their accounts to the last Kwacha.".... Without further delay, I wish to announce to you that all final year students will need to have Zero balance, or else no exams", was the stark message.
The lecture theatre from which the address was held from fell silent as the weight of the announcement sunk in. Many final year students, already anxious about their future, were now confronted with the daunting reality of clearing their debts or forfeiting their chance to graduate. Tears streamed down the faces of some, as the harsh truth hit home. The once-hopeful atmosphere transformed into a scene of anguish, with wails and sniffles filling the air.
For those with no financial safety net, the prospect of finding the necessary funds seemed insurmountable. Families struggling to make ends meet would have to scrounge for every ngwee. As they struggled to come to terms with their predicament, one question lingered: .."where would they turn for help?" The uncertainty hung in the air like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over the futures of these aspiring professionals.
In a stark contrast, students not in their final year were offered a lifeline. Management assured them that they could sit for exams upon paying a portion of their balance ( threshold), providing a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil.
As the TVTC community grapples with this tough stance, one thing is clear: the fate of these final year students hangs precariously in the balance. Will a miracle intervene, or will the dreams of these young minds be put on hold?
—, TVTC Press,
November 6, 2024.