Online Reporter
A biting cold spell has gripped Bulawayo, with residents finding different ways to keep warm as temperatures drop across the city.
Blankets, hoodies, jackets and woollen garments have become a common sight across the city, with residents wrapping themselves up against the chilly conditions.
For some, small braziers and roadside fires have provided much-needed relief, with commuters, traders and passersby gathering around the flames to warm their hands and escape the cold.
Some residents have resorted to collecting firewood and bark to keep their households warm as the cold persists.
The cold weather coincided with the 14th graduation ceremony of Hillside Teachers College, where 441 graduands received their qualifications on Wednesday.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Frederick Shava officiated at the ceremony, which was held under the theme “Building a Sustainable Future Through Heritage-Based Education.”
Of the 441 graduands, 149 are men and 292 are women, while 48.4 percent completed studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Dr Shava highlighted the college’s efforts to promote indigenous languages, including the introduction of ChiNambya to its curriculum, saying heritage-based education should connect ancestral knowledge with contemporary learning.
He also urged the graduands to embrace innovation and lifelong learning, while using technology responsibly and remaining guided by the principles of Ubuntu, Unhu and Vumunhu.
Despite the biting weather, the rhythm of life continues across Bulawayo.
Temperatures were around 12°C this afternoon, with the cold expected to continue tomorrow. Temperatures are forecast to reach a maximum of about 14°C.
