Provincial education director Zedious Chitiga said Theresa Mufuka and a 15-year-old pupil identified as Charles Sarai, died at the school after they were struck by lightning.

The two have since been buried.

“We have received the shocking reports. One other teacher was also struck and admitted at Ndanga Hospital, but has since been discharged,” Chitiga said.

A teacher at the school who requested anonymity said the incident had left them dumbfounded as there was no drop of rain that fell on the day save for a few clouds that formed and disappeared afterwards.

“She was handing fees receipts to pupils as we were about to end the day, while other pupils were doing general work. Suddenly, as she handed the pupil his receipt, a bolt of lightning struck from nowhere. There were just a few clouds,” said a teacher who declined to be named.

“Her husband was standing beside her, but was not affected. She fell back on her chair and collapsed. Her left side was left burning and paralysed. We tried to do some first aid, but it was too little too late to save her life,” the teacher said.

Masvingo provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa also confirmed the incident.

Last year, two imbibers in Tavengahama village under Chief Nhema were fatally struck at a traditional beer drinking ceremony.

According to figures from the police, as of April last year, 13 people have been killed by lightning in the province.