Tinotenda Hove – The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) held its 44th graduation ceremony on Friday, with Chancellor of all State Universities, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, officially declaring the congregation duly constituted.

The ceremony was held under the theme, “Commercialising Knowledge, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Graduate Towards an Upper Middle Income Economy.”

However, while the event was marked with pomp and ceremony, public reaction online painted a far more sombre picture, with many questioning whether the occasion still holds the prestige it once did.

On social media, user Da Truth expressed concern over the graduates’ future, writing: “Kufara zvavo vana vedu asi mabasa hakuba. I feel sorry for these kids after all the hard work.”

Another, Janyauro, criticised the official theme, saying: “Just a useless theme Nick. It’s too long and verbose.”

Mrs Mbongwe’s response reflected the economic hardships facing job seekers: “I wish they will get good jobs 😭🙏🏾. Zim is tough. Destroyed by those who wield power.”

Nguze was even more scathing, claiming the education system was failing students: “Poor graduates. Half baked. Kungopiwa mapepa ivo vasina kudzidza. Feel pity for them.”

The mixed reactions highlight a growing public sentiment that, while graduation remains a milestone for students, it no longer guarantees opportunity in a struggling economy.