Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chief Editor
Published on 2024-04-08 02:59:00
The University of Zambia (UNZA) community is currently in mourning following the tragic death of Margaret Chibesakunda, a 22-year-old third-year Public Administration student who was electrocuted on the night of April 6 at approximately 21:30 hours within the UNZA Great East Road Campus, October Hostels.
According to Rae Hamoonga, the Police Spokesperson, Chibesakunda suffered fatal injuries while trying to plug in her phone charger, resulting in a sudden electric shock that caused severe burns to her neck, right elbow, and leg. Her lifeless body has been taken to the University Teaching Hospital Mortuary for further investigation, including a postmortem examination and funeral arrangements.
The incident has brought to light concerns about the safety and maintenance of electrical infrastructure within the university premises. Students have raised issues about the substandard condition of electrical connections, such as missing plugs, sockets, adaptors, and exposed wires without proper protection.
This tragic event emphasizes the immediate need for UNZA management to address the precarious state of electrical installations on campus. The safety and well-being of students should be a top priority, with urgent measures required to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
As the UNZA community grieves the loss of Margaret Chibesakunda, there are calls for accountability and proactive steps to ensure the safety of all students on campus. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the significance of maintaining infrastructure and prioritizing student welfare in educational institutions.
The University of Zambia Management has assured that measures have been put in place to allow the Police and other relevant authorities to conduct investigations into the electrocution of Margaret Chibesakunda. UNZA Registrar Theresa Chalwe has stated that a detailed report will be provided once the investigations are complete.
Chalwe has also requested respect for the privacy of the bereaved family as investigations are ongoing. The University has reached out to the family of Ms. Chibesakunda and offered support in any way possible during this difficult time.
In conclusion, the tragic death of Margaret Chibesakunda has shaken the UNZA community and highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures in the university’s electrical infrastructure. It is imperative that immediate action is taken to prevent similar accidents and ensure the well-being of all students on campus. This serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing infrastructure maintenance and student welfare in educational institutions.
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
