The Ministry of Education has confirmed the disbursement of over K700 million in education grants to various public schools across Zambia. This substantial allocation is aimed at supporting the country’s education system, ensuring that schools are equipped to provide quality education under the free education policy.
In a statement, the Ministry’s Assistant Director for Communications, Kunda Mando, confirmed that the funds were disbursed last week and that schools should start receiving their allocations today. The funds will be directed to over 12,000 public schools across the country, including both primary and secondary schools.
However, the National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) has expressed concern about the delayed disbursement of the education grants. NAQEZ Executive Director Aaron Chansa pointed out that the delay has impacted over 12,000 public schools, comprising 10,000 primary and 2,000 secondary schools that have been receiving grants since the introduction of free education.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka, Mando addressed the concerns raised by NAQEZ, clarifying that some schools may experience delays in receiving their funds due to differences in bank processes. Despite these potential delays, she reassured the public that the government has taken steps to ensure that funds are distributed efficiently to all schools.
Out of the total K700 million disbursed, K300 million has been allocated to secondary schools, K200 million to primary schools, and K200 million will be distributed among Colleges of Education, Provincial Education Officers (PEOs), and District Education Board Secretaries (DEBS).
Mando also made it clear that the Ministry of Education would not tolerate any misuse of the funds by school management. She emphasized that the money should be used solely for its intended purpose, ensuring that it reaches the students who need it most.
This disbursement of funds is seen as a significant step in strengthening Zambia’s education system, particularly for schools that have been impacted by funding delays in the past. The government’s continued commitment to providing free education for all is reflected in these efforts, even as challenges remain in the timely distribution of resources.
With the funds now reaching schools, educators and students are hopeful that the grants will support improved learning environments, better infrastructure, and essential supplies like books and uniforms, in line with the government’s free education policy. However, the effectiveness of this allocation will depend on how well the funds are managed at the local level and whether schools can avoid the issues of misuse that have plagued some institutions in the past.
