University of Zimbabwe bans hugging and kissing on campus

Students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) last week refused to acknowledge a circular barring them from kissing or hugging on campus.

Signed by the deputy registrar of students, Anne Takawira, it says students found engaging in such acts were liable for a hearing or ‘befitting' disciplinary action by the authorities.

"We are still trying to engage the tertiary institution authorities to confirm about the development," said Joana Mamombe, the Zimbabwe National Students Union (Zinasu) Gender and Human Rights Secretary.

Takawira refused to comment, referring all questions to the information department, where a lady only identified as Judith requested the questions in writing.

Evernice Munando, the Director of the Female Students Network, said while it was a noble idea to promote the moral behaviour, it was important for the responsible authorities not to infringe on the personal liberties of students.

Dzimbabwe Chimbga of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) said the move infringed on students' rights.

"There are certain acts that are not fit to be practiced in public but definitely hugging and kissing do not fall in that category," said Chimbga.

"This makes the communication unconstitutional because it limits students' rights of association."