The Editor Zambia
The United Party for National Development (UPND) government has received widespread praise for undertaking sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling Zambia’s education sector and restoring confidence in the country’s learning institutions.
Speaking during the inaugural graduation ceremony for Kapasa Makasa University in Chinsali District, Education Minister Douglas Syakalima said the government was implementing key reforms designed to strengthen the national education system and expand opportunities for learners across the country. 
Among the major reforms highlighted was the creation of a centralised national student database, a development expected to improve planning, student tracking, and more efficient allocation of educational resources.
Analysts say the initiative reflects a modern and organised approach to governance that will help authorities better respond to the needs of students and institutions.
The minister also pointed to the Free Education Policy, one of the flagship programmes under the UPND administration, which has already enabled thousands of children to return to school.
Many parents across Zambia have described the policy as life changing, especially for low-income households that previously struggled to meet school fees.
Observers note that by removing barriers to education, the government has not only increased access but also renewed hope among families who see schooling as the pathway to a better future.
Further commendation has gone to the reintroduction of meal allowances for university students, an intervention many say has restored dignity and eased hardship among learners in higher institutions.
Students have also welcomed the continued provision of loans, scholarships, and skills development bursaries, which are allowing many young people to pursue studies in universities, colleges, and technical institutions.
The government has equally earned praise for investing in infrastructure development in tertiary institutions, including hostels, offices, and laboratories.
Such investments are expected to improve the quality of learning and research while helping institutions accommodate growing student numbers.
Syakalima reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue financing the education sector and encouraging higher learning institutions to expand through opportunities such as loans from the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission.
Kapasa Makasa University Vice Chancellor Professor Jacob Mwitwa said the institution remained committed to research, innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in agribusiness, adding that the support being given by government was helping universities become engines of economic growth.
Graduates at the ceremony also commended President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration for prioritising education and creating an environment where students can succeed.
Education stakeholders say the reforms introduced by the UPND government demonstrate clear leadership and a long-term vision for Zambia’s future.
They argue that by investing in classrooms, universities, students, and systems, the government is laying a strong foundation for national development.
As Zambia advances toward a knowledge-based economy, many believe the transformation of the education sector will stand as one of the UPND government’s most enduring achievements.
