Students learn harsh lesson

The Avenues medical clinic in Harare was fuller than usual this weekend. Several beds were occupied by students injured in riots at the University of Zimbabwe. One of those who was able - and willing - to talk was Nathaniel Nare, 21, in his fourth year of an honours degree course in accountancy.

Nathaniel, who comes from Beitbridge on the South African border, didn't look good. One leg was in plaster, and the rest of his body was bandaged heavily, the result, he told me, of blows with batons and dog bites.

He said trouble began after the students gathered in a hall on campus to protest at deteriorating standards at the university. Only two lectures have been given in Nathaniel's course since February, and final examinations are fast approaching.