University, students

Great Zimbabwe University's auto billing system has come under criticism from students and parents who claim that the system is charging off-campus students for using the institution's accommodation facilities, despite not residing on campus. Students using the GZU's Mashava campus consider these charges to be illegal and are demanding immediate action to address the issue.

According to a student who preferred to remain anonymous, the university is forcing all students to stay in campus residences. They argue that the institution should not impose accommodation fees on students who do not reside on campus.

The second-semester tuition fees for GZU vary but can be as high as US$480 depending on the program. Accommodation on campus for Mashava students costs US$190 for shared rooms and US$240 for single accommodations.

Some students and parents believe that the university's approach was poorly handled, as it did not involve consultation with stakeholders. They assert that not all students can afford on-campus accommodations and should have the option to make that choice.

GZU spokesperson Anderson Chipatiso defended the university's policy, stating that it requires all Mashava campus students to stay in campus residences. According to the university, this policy is intended to ensure the safety of all students.