Bulawayo Polytechnic expels two female students after kissing incident

Faith Ndlovu

Bulawayo Polytechnic has expelled two female students, Prudence Mataruka and Prisca Mutandwa, following an incident in which they were caught kissing by fellow students on campus.

Both students were enrolled in the institution’s baking course.

According to eyewitnesses, the two were seen engaging in the intimate act in a common area on campus, which quickly drew attention and led to a formal complaint to the college administration.

It is also believed that Prudence and Prisca have been in a relationship for some time, although this had not been publicly disclosed before the incident.

The Polytechnic’s disciplinary committee convened quickly and decided to expel both students for violating the school’s code of conduct, which prohibits public displays of affection and behavior deemed inappropriate within the academic environment.

In an official statement, the institution said, “The Polytechnic remains committed to maintaining a learning environment that upholds its values and policies. After careful consideration, disciplinary action was taken against the students involved.” The statement did not elaborate on further details of the case.

The expulsions have sparked debate among students and community members about the enforcement of behavioral standards and the treatment of same-sex relationships within educational institutions. Some have called for more inclusive policies, while others support the institution’s decision based on existing rules.

Prudence and Prisca’s families have not yet issued public comments regarding the expulsions or the circumstances surrounding the incident. The two students now face an uncertain academic future following the disciplinary action.