Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
ANOTHER Chinhoyi University of Technology student has died from wounds sustained in a road accident in Chiredzi – just a few days after Panashe Mwinga died in a car crash while travelling to Harare after her graduation.
Mclarian Chando, affectionately known as DJ Killers, was a Level 3:1 student who was studying Information Technology.
Fellow students say Chando was a larger-than-life character, who loved his music, and was quite a popular fellow at the university.
CUT Student Representative Council Minister of External Affairs, Information and Publicity , Malvin Saint Madanda, said Chando was a bright young man with a remarkable spirit, a passion for music and a future full of promise.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing on of one of our fellow students, Mclarian Chando, widely known among us as DJ KILLERS.
“Mclarian was a Level 3:1 student who was studying Information Technology.
“A bright young man with a remarkable spirit, a passion for music and a future full of promise.”
Mclarian was involved in a serious accident in Chiredzi.
Despite being transferred to Parirenyatwa hospital for critical medical care, he lost his life.
“His presence was felt in every corner not just in the classrooms but in the hearts of those he shared conversations, laughter and dreams with.
“His passing is a devastating news loss not only to his family and close friends, but to all of us who had the privilege of knowing and studying alongside him.
“As we grieve this unimaginable loss we also stand together in unity and remembrance, Monday of September 1st 2025, has been declared Black Monday in his honour.
“We invite all students to wear black as a symbol of mourning and collective reflection, let us take a moment to pause, remember and pay tribute to the life and legacy of Mclarian.
“Our thoughts are with the Chando family during this time of their sorrow.”
A student at the university described Chando as a cheerful person who inspired other students with his infectious smile
and with his music.
“He was a very cheerful person who loved his music which was infectious,” said the student.
“Chando was a humble person who inspired us.”
Chando is the fifth student at CUT who has died in the last NINE months in tragic circumstances.
He is one of three students who have died in accidents.
Two other students took their lives just a few weeks ago.
The SRC had already declared yesterday a Black Monday before the news of Chando’s death filtered through.
Mwinga, described by colleagues as a very intelligent young woman, died in a road accident on Thursday, just hours after she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual and Communication Multimedia.
The tragedy happened near the Gwebi River as the family was driving to Harare from Chinhoyi.
Mwinga’s father, an engineer, was seriously injured in the crash.
Madanda described Mwinga as a gifted young lady.
“It is with profound (regret) and a deep sense of loss that we inform you of the passing of Panashe Mwinga, a gifted young lady who graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual and Communication Multimedia.
“Panashe was involved in a fatal road accident on the evening of August 28 2025, near Mapinga close to Gwebi River while travelling with her siblings and both parents.
“Her untimely passing is a profound loss to the university community and to all who had the privilege of sharing her journey.”
An eyewitness, who was one of the first people at the scene, told H-Metro:
“The graduate was clad in her gown. I pulled out the father, mother and the kid,” he said.
“The car burst a left-side tyre before overturning. I was courageous enough to go and render some help.
“What saddened me most was seeing people taking videos and not being able to help.”
In November last year, CUT student Tanatswa Chinyama died after being hit by a car while on her way to the campus from a popular local joint.
Tanatswa was a Level 2:1 student in the School of Hospitality and Tourism.
She was hit by a car while in the company of five other students.
The other four students sustained injuries.
The accident happened after the driver of the vehicle lost control and hit the students near the railway crossing along the Chinhoyi-Chegutu Highway.
The students were coming from Jongwe Corner where they had attended a Zim Hip-Hop Culture event.
Last month a CUT student took his life at the campus’ sports field and was described by colleagues as a model student who did not show any signs of stress.
Abraham Chabata was a first year Agricultural Engineering student and committed suicide by downing an unknown poison.
He left a suicide note that was directed at his family.
His death came just four days after another student at the same university, Takudzwa Alex Mapurisa, also committed suicide.
He was said to have been battling serious mental health challenges.
A CUT student told H-Metro:
“Abraham was a good and model student and there were no signs whatsoever that he was having any issues which could lead to what happened.
“It’s very shocking.”
Madanda said Chabata’s death at the university premises shook the institution.
“This loss has sent ripples of grief across our institution and we extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, classmates and all who knew him.
“May they find strength, comfort and peace during this immensely difficult time. As we reflect on this tragedy, we are reminded of the silent battles many among us may be facing.
“We urge all the students to open up about your struggles and challenges whether with family, trusted friends, peer counsellors.”
