Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 28th March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) marked a historic milestone with its inaugural Annual Fundraising and Friends-Making Gala Dinner, a prestigious event aimed at strengthening partnerships and advancing public service training in Zambia.
His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, in his capacity as President of NIPA, was represented by Minister of Technology and Science, Honourable Felix C. Mutati, MP. The event, held under the theme “Partnering for Progress: Advancing Public Service Training, Certification, and Institutional Growth,” underscored the critical role of collaboration in enhancing governance and professional excellence in Zambia’s public sector.
In his address, President Hichilema emphasized that the occasion was more than just a fundraising initiative—it was a strategic investment in the transformation of Zambia’s public service. He highlighted plans to construct a state-of-the-art amphitheater for the Centre of Excellence in Public Service Training and Certification, reinforcing NIPA’s role as a cornerstone of governance and administrative capacity-building.
“Tonight’s gathering is not just about raising funds; it is about shaping the future of our public service. A capable, well-trained workforce is essential for national development, and this event marks a crucial step toward that goal,” stated the President.
Since its establishment in 1963 and formalization under the NIPA Act No. 15 of 1998, NIPA has been instrumental in developing the skills, knowledge, and values of Zambia’s public servants. President Hichilema formally recognized and commended the institution’s invaluable contributions to national development, emphasizing its role in fostering professionalism, transparency, and efficiency in governance.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing NIPA’s mandate, outlining three key policy directions:
- Strategic Financial Support – Government grants and all statutory funds allocated for public service training will be channeled to NIPA to strengthen its institutional capacity.
- Legislative Enhancements – The NIPA Act will be reviewed and strengthened to further solidify the institute’s authority in public service training and certification.
- Government-to-Business (G2B) Model – Public sector institutions will be encouraged to leverage their assets, expertise, and strategic partnerships to generate sustainable revenue, reducing dependence on the national treasury.
President Hichilema extended heartfelt appreciation to local and international partners—including SUNY Schenectady County Community College, the Belt and Road Institute of Science and Technology, Longi, and GIZ—whose support has been instrumental in driving Zambia’s public service transformation agenda.
He also called on the private sector to actively participate in this transformative journey, emphasizing that a stronger public service fosters a more conducive business environment and a thriving economy.
“As a nation, we are committed to building a public service that truly serves its people. Our shared vision, guided by collaboration and divine purpose, will propel Zambia towards new heights of service excellence and national progress,” the President concluded.
With this bold vision and unwavering commitment, Zambia is poised to redefine its public service landscape, setting a new standard for governance and institutional excellence in the region.
The Agency.