The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has reportedly announced plans to lay off 700 out of its 1 300 non-academic staff complement, as the once prestigious academic institution battles to stay afloat.

According to insiders, the institution last week informed its staff that it was embarking on a “rationalization” exercise in line with the current economic environment.

This comes as most non-teaching staff are yet to receive their October and November salaries, while lecturers were in three months’ salary arrears.

Authorities were not answering their phones yesterday.