Hailstorm disrupts 'O' level exam in Insiza

Candidates sitting for 'O' level examinations at Avoca Secondary School in Insiza district had their examination disrupted after a hailstorm destroyed classroom blocks and socked answer sheets.

10 candidates were sitting for their Agriculture theory examination when a heavy downpour accompanied by strong winds ripped off the roof of an examination room and destroyed answer sheets.

The Zimbabwe School Examination Council (ZIMSEC) is yet to decide their fate.

The candidates told the ZBC News that they had to abandon the crucial examination 10 minutes before the end, scurrying for cover as their lives were in danger.

Two pupils and a teacher sustained minor injuries after they were hit by broken asbestos sheets.

The headmaster of Avoca Secondary School, Mr Benedict Dube said after the incident, they were directed to send the candidates' examination material to ZIMSEC regardless of its state.

Due to the damage caused by the hailstorm, the school is now experiencing an acute shortage of classrooms to accommodate candidates sitting for their 'O' level examinations as well as other students.

The hailstorm and violent winds, which are common in the district, also destroyed several homesteads and other community buildings.