A drying up of funds for various Non-Governmental Organisations in Zimbabwe has left a group of students who were expelled from the Midlands State University in a state of desperation. Ornwell Marasha, a former student leader, was expelled from the college while at least four other students were suspended for attending an alleged illegal meeting which involved political sloganeering. The students apparently had close links to the MDC and authorities deliberately got rid of them to block them contesting student council elections.

Months down the line Marasha cuts a dejected figure with the realization that organizations like the Students Solidarity Trust, which normally helps expelled students, is facing a drying up of donor funds. It has taken the intervention of veteran politician and Gweru business tycoon, Patrick Kombayi to prevent the welfare of the students deteriorating further. The businessman turned politician says he met university authorities over the issue and is trying to negotiate for them to at least sit for their exams.

He is willing to meet their accommodation and food expenses but would like the University to allow them to write their exams. Marasha was expelled when he had only 3 weeks left to finish a four year course. Students who are expelled from colleges or universities have traditionally been sponsored to go abroad and study elsewhere but it would seem the funds are drying up for these initiatives.