Catholic Church authorities have closed down Mtendere Secondary School because of fracas, negatively affecting Form Four students who are now operating as day scholars as they are sitting for the final examination.

The education secretary for Catholic schools Pascal Mtwana confirmed the development.

“The students have found private places where they are lodging as they sit for the MSCE examination,” said Mtwana.

Mtwana said that   Mtendere had to be closed prematurely after Form Four students rioted in disagreement with management decision to suspend one of the students who was found drunk.

“They went on rampage, questioning the school management decision to suspend a drunken student,” said Mtwana.

According Mtwana, the suspended student used to drink beer excessively against school rules.

Meanwhile, Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) students are seating for their final examinations across the country.