Education Minister Calls for Enhanced Cooperation with India in the Education Sector

The Minister of Education in Zambia, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, has urged for strengthened collaboration between Zambia and India in the field of education, citing India’s advancements in technology as an area of particular interest for Zambia’s education sector.

The call for enhanced cooperation came during the commemoration of India’s 75th Republic Day in Lusaka on Friday, January 26th, 2024. 

India Republic Day marks the adoption of the country’s constitution on January 26th, 1950, and is celebrated as a national holiday in India.

Hon. Syakalima expressed pride in India’s commitment to protecting and respecting its constitution, highlighting its importance in ensuring that decisions made on behalf of the public align with public opinion. 

Drawing parallels, he emphasized the significance of the constitution in Zambia as a growing democracy.

Zambia and India have long-standing warm and bilateral relations, with cooperation spanning various sectors. The Education Minister acknowledged India’s efforts, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the admission of the African Union (AU) into the G20. 

He specifically praised India’s support in the education sector, citing the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) programs offered by India as an example.

The Minister stated, “Government and the Ministry of Education, in particular, would like to further collaborate with India in the education sector because Zambia has put education at the center of its development agenda.”

Indian High Commissioner to Zambia, Mr. Ashok Kumar, highlighted the historical ties between the two countries, emphasizing that India was one of the first nations to recognize Zambia soon after its independence in 1964. 

He emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations, which has flourished over the years with successive governments.