Zambia’s Education Minister, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, has once again emphasized the positive impact of the introduction of free education in the country, stating that over two million children have benefited from the initiative. Without the free education policy, he argued, these children would have been left to roam the streets and potentially become a menace to society.
Speaking at the Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association Fundraising Gala Dinner in Lusaka on Saturday, December 21st, 2024, the Minister described the introduction of free education in 2021 as an unprecedented achievement. He noted that the policy has seen over two million children enrolled in schools, preventing them from falling into lives of crime and idleness.
Hon. Syakalima, who is also the Member of Parliament for Chirundu, explained that education is not only about imparting academic and moral values but also serves as a form of social control. By keeping children in school, he emphasized, the government is deterring them from engaging in illicit activities and giving them a chance to develop their potential.
“The debate about the increased number of learners in classrooms is a better evil than what would have happened had these children been left on the streets,” said Syakalima. Despite the challenges of larger class sizes, the Minister pointed out that the government had taken significant steps to address the issue, including hiring over 40,000 teachers in just two years and investing in the production and rehabilitation of desks.
Hon. Syakalima stressed that these efforts were aimed at bridging the gap in teacher-pupil ratios and creating a more conducive learning environment. He reiterated the government’s commitment to education as a cornerstone for national growth, emphasizing that reforms in the education sector focus on expanding access, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of teaching at all levels.
“The government is dedicated to creating an educational environment where every child can achieve their fullest potential,” he added.
The Minister also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the organizers of the historic first-ever Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association reunion and fundraising event. He commended the alumni for their vision and generosity, noting that their efforts could have a meaningful impact on the education system and provide every child with the opportunity to succeed.
In addition, Mike Mwemba, Chairperson of the Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association, shared that the funds raised during the dinner would be used to construct two female dormitories at the school. He urged all past students of Rusangu Secondary School to contribute and give back to the institution that provided them with an education.
The fundraising dinner not only highlighted the importance of community involvement in education but also underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of education in Zambia and provide opportunities for future generations.
