By Violet Mashonga
Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe – The recently concluded Chancellor of Zimbabwe State Universities Staff Games (CZSUSG), held from July 20–27 at Chinhoyi University of Technology, has sparked discontent among staff members from the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) over what they describe as a glaring lack of institutional support.
Although the HIT team secured an impressive 5th place finish, participants say the achievement was marred by the fact that they had to personally cover costs for uniforms, travel, and other expenses associated with the games—an event dedicated exclusively to university staff.
“It’s disheartening to see the university prioritize overseas trips for senior staff while leaving us to fend for ourselves,” said one frustrated staff member. “We’re not asking for much—just basic support so we can represent HIT with pride.”
The controversy deepens as some staff allege that, while sports teams struggle to secure funding, senior officials are being sponsored on lavish international trips, including recent excursions to Morocco, reportedly for “study purposes.” Critics question the educational value of such trips in light of mounting staff grievances.
Although the university pays affiliation fees to tournament organizers and awards are issued to winning teams, HIT’s own staff say they received no recognition or post-tournament support despite their performance.
Beyond the sports arena, concerns about HIT’s priorities extend to other areas of staff welfare. Employees claim that medical support is lacking, with many footing their own bills for health care—further fueling frustration over how university funds are allocated.
The apparent contrast between executive privileges and the lack of support for frontline staff has led many to question the university’s commitment to fair resource distribution and staff development.
Staff members are now calling on the HIT administration to reassess its priorities, urging leadership to invest more meaningfully in the people who contribute to the institution’s success—both on and off the field.
“We’re proud to represent HIT, but we need our institution to stand behind us,” said another staff participant. “Support shouldn’t be selective.”
As the dust settles on this year’s edition of the CZSUSG, the hope among staff is that their voices will lead to change—and that future tournaments will reflect not only athletic excellence but also administrative accountability.
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