By Gerald Mambwe
A 24-year-old University of Zambia Veterinary fourth-year student, Chipili James, will be put to rest on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in the Copperbelt Province.
Mr Chipili passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Levy Mwanawasa General Hospital following a tragic accident during the deferred and supplementary exams in February.
UNZA Veterinary Students Association (UNZAVETSA) President Chiya Clifford disclosed that doctors had diagnosed Mr Chipili with anemia and later discovered internal bleeding in his chest.
“Despite undergoing surgery, he succumbed to his condition. This is a huge loss for us. Chipili was not just a colleague but a brother to many of us,” Mr Chiya said in an interview with Lusaka Star during the candlelight vigil held at UNZA Monk Square on Sunday evening.
“We lived and worked together as a family, and his passing has left us heartbroken. Mr Chipili, who was in his final year, had recently completed his exams after deferring due to health challenges.”
He also revealed that UNZAVETSA, in collaboration with the UNZA Students Union (UNZASU), has raised K10,000 to assist with funeral expenses.
Mr Chiya stated that part of the funds would cover travel costs for the family and burial arrangements, while a portion would be set aside to support Mr Chipili’s mother after the funeral.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure James receives a dignified send-off. We have mobilized students to travel for the burial, and we will continue to support his family during this difficult time,” Mr Chiya added.
Speaking at the same event, UNZASU Acting Vice President Bizwell Chiko expressed concern over the number of students dying at the institution.
“Two weeks ago, we buried our brother. Last week, we buried our sister. And this week, we are burying another brother. At this point, we can only ask ourselves what is really happening,” he said.
Mr Chiko urged students to commit everything that is happening into God’s hands, as God cannot be questioned over the events taking place at the university.
Credit : LUSAKA STAR