Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) is in a state of shock and mourning following the tragic suicide of a first-year Agricultural Engineering student, just four days after another student at the institution took their own life. The dual tragedies have left the campus community grappling with grief, disbelief, and urgent questions about student mental health.
The most recent victim, Abraham Chabata, was found dead on university grounds last Wednesday. Peers and lecturers described him as a model student—academically diligent, socially engaged, and financially stable. The revelation of his death has sent shockwaves through CUT, where students and staff alike are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a young life.
According to fellow students, Chabata showed no outward signs of depression or emotional distress prior to the incident. Many described him as cheerful and approachable, someone who actively participated in class discussions and campus activities. His unexpected decision to end his life has left friends and faculty questioning how such a tragedy could occur without warning.
“Abraham was always polite, helpful, and a committed student. He never showed any signs of being unhappy or struggling. This is why we are all finding it so difficult to process his death,” said one fellow first-year student who preferred not to be named.
Faculty members echoed these sentiments, noting that Chabata had consistently performed well academically and had not raised any concerns during interactions with lecturers or counsellors. His sudden death, therefore, presents a profound mystery that has left the university community searching for answers.
CUT is still recovering from the loss of another student just days earlier, whose death by suicide also shocked the campus. While details of the first incident remain private to protect the family and community, the close succession of these two deaths has heightened concerns among students, parents, and mental health professionals.
University authorities confirmed that both incidents are being taken seriously and that counselling services are available to students struggling to cope with grief and stress. Dr. Tapiwa Chikuni, head of CUT’s student welfare department, urged students to seek support and emphasized the importance of community care.
“These are deeply tragic events, and our priority is to ensure that students have access to mental health support and counselling. We encourage anyone feeling distressed or overwhelmed to reach out to our services. It is important for students to know that help is available and that they do not have to face their struggles alone,” Dr. Chikuni said.
CUT Campus Reels as Second Student Suicide Rocks University
The sudden deaths have intensified national conversations about student mental health, particularly in higher education institutions where young people often face intense academic pressure alongside social and financial challenges. Experts note that many individuals struggling internally may appear outwardly well-adjusted, making it difficult for peers or faculty to identify warning signs.
“Suicide is often the result of complex and hidden psychological factors. It is a misconception that individuals who are academically successful or socially engaged are immune to mental health struggles,” said a mental health professional familiar with university counselling services. “Awareness, early intervention, and open dialogue are key to prevention.”
In the aftermath of Chabata’s death, CUT has intensified efforts to support students and staff. Counselling sessions and peer support initiatives are being offered, while university leadership has called for heightened vigilance and compassion within dormitories and lecture halls.
A university spokesperson reiterated the institution’s commitment to student wellbeing, stating, “We are deeply saddened by these losses. Our priority is to provide support to students and staff affected by these tragedies, while working to strengthen mental health resources on campus.”
Students have also taken it upon themselves to create support networks, organising peer discussions and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma around seeking help.
The dual tragedies at CUT serve as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness among young people. While both incidents remain under investigation, the message from experts and authorities is clear: emotional struggles can be hidden, and reaching out for help can save lives.
As the Chinhoyi University of Technology community continues to mourn, faculty, CUT students, and mental health professionals alike are advocating for stronger support systems, open conversations, and proactive interventions to prevent future losses. The hope is that through increased awareness and compassion, the university can begin to heal while honouring the memories of the students who tragically lost their lives.
Source- iHarare
