Reported by: The Agency Media
Date: 28th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In his address to the nation in Parliament on Friday, February 28, 2025, President Hakainde Hichilema commended the Ministry of Education, led by Honourable Douglas Syakalima, for its continued strides in advancing Zambia’s education sector. The President highlighted the remarkable impact of the free education policy, which has enabled over two million learners to return to school in the past three years.
A particularly inspiring example of this progress is Dorothy Kamanisha, a 42-year-old grade nine pupil from Solwezi District, who embodies the government’s commitment to inclusive education. President Hichilema acknowledged her determination as a testament to Zambia’s thriving “Education for All” policy, emphasizing that no citizen should be deprived of learning opportunities.
Highlights from President Hichilema’s Address:
“Madam Speaker,
Our free education policy is bearing fruit. Many more of our children, regardless of their background, are accessing education. Over two million learners have returned to school in the past three years since we reintroduced free education, giving them a better chance at a successful life.
This policy has also motivated some of our adult citizens. For example, let us welcome our 42-year-old pupil, Dorothy Kamanisha from Solwezi, who has enrolled in grade nine. She is accompanied by her head teacher, Chrispin Mumena of Rodwell Mwepu Day Secondary School. Let us give them a round of applause.
Our belief is that no Zambian should be deprived of education. In our view, education is the best investment, the greatest equalizer, and the most valuable inheritance.
We have also continued to improve the learning environment by providing school desks, constructing and upgrading classrooms, and recruiting more teachers to enhance the teacher-learner ratio.
Furthermore, in 2024, the number of vulnerable learners benefiting from the Home-Grown School Meals Programme more than doubled from 2.2 million to 4.7 million. Additionally, district coverage expanded from 82 districts in 2023 to 106 districts in 2024.”
President Hichilema reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that education remains accessible to all Zambians. The New Dawn Government’s investment in infrastructure, teaching resources, and social support programs continues to transform lives, demonstrating that education is not just a policy priority but a fundamental right for all.
The Agenc
