The Zambian government has resolved to put off the proposed closure of the University of Zambia from September 1 to October 31 after students rioted against the decision.
Education Minister Dr John Phiri has asked students at the institution not to worry about the rehabilitation process ahead of the SADC games which will be partly hosted by UNZA.
“Right now, they should just concentrate on their studies and getting the calendar back to normal. They should not worry about the funding,” said Dr Phiri.
On Sunday evening, students took to the streets, blocking the Great East Road around 21:00 hours and stoning motorists that attempted to drive past the institution.
The riots were fueled by the government’s earlier decision to close the institution on September 1 to pave way for renovations ahead of the Zone Six games.
Police detained six students for riotous behaviour in the process, but they have since been released.