A 27-year-old Zambian nursing student, Maria Bowa, from Mbala School of Nursing, has allegedly taken her own life by consuming an unknown substance.

Maria, originally from Nakonde, was discovered dead in her room at Ntindi Village around 13:00 hours by her elder sister, with whom she resided.

While the police are yet to release an official statement, unconfirmed reports from local media indicate that Maria had recently returned home after being informed by her school that she would not be permitted to sit for her final exams, scheduled for June.

It is still uncertain whether this development influenced her tragic decision. Investigations are ongoing as the community mourns the loss.