Churchill High hostel fire displaces 54 pupils

Churchill High School is reeling from a devastating fire that gutted one of its junior hostels on Monday afternoon, leaving 54 boarding students counting heavy losses.

The tragedy compounds an already difficult time for the school community, which is still mourning the recent passing of two teachers. The emotional impact on both learners and staff has been profound.

Preliminary reports indicate the fire started in one of the teachers' rooms, believed to have been caused by an electrical fault that triggered a gas explosion. The blaze rapidly consumed the hostel, destroying beds, mattresses, school uniforms, and personal belongings.

Distressed students were seen sifting through the charred remains, desperately trying to salvage what little they could.

School Head Mr. Aquanos Mazhunga confirmed the incident and assured that the affected pupils have been temporarily relocated.

"Fifty-four students were affected by the fire. We have since moved them to another hostel while we assess the damage and plan the way forward," he said.

The School Development Association (SDA) Chairperson, Ms. Chipo Mahamba, described the loss and trauma with visible emotion.

"As the Churchill family, this is devastating. We are still trying to come to terms with this tragedy. Beds, mattresses, uniforms  -  everything has been burnt to ashes. The students are traumatised," she said.

As night fell, a somber mood settled over the school grounds, with many affected students still in shock, grappling with a day they will not soon forget.

Authorities are expected to launch a full investigation into the fire's cause, while appeals have been made to well-wishers and alumni for support to help the displaced students recover from the loss.