Zambia Qualifications Authority Act No. 8 of 2024 Enacted to Enhance Qualification Standards
The Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) held a press briefing to announce the enactment of the Zambia Qualifications Authority Act No. 8 of 2024, which took effect on 18th August 2024. The briefing, led by Director General Mercy M. Ngoma, aimed to inform stakeholders about significant legislative changes that will enhance the regulation of qualifications in the country.
During the event, Mrs. Ngoma expressed gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Ministry of Education for their support in strengthening this law. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure compliance with the new regulations, which aim to uphold quality standards in education and training.
The new Act replaces the previous Zambia Qualifications Authority Act No. 13 of 2011 and introduces several critical changes. One of the key provisions is the prohibition of awarding unregistered qualifications. According to Section 21 of the Act, any awarding body that issues qualifications not registered with ZAQA could face fines of up to K200,000 or imprisonment for up to five years.
Mrs. Ngoma highlighted the importance of this measure in ensuring that qualifications offered in Zambia meet national standards, thereby protecting learners and enhancing the international recognition of Zambian qualifications.
She noted that the Act also mandates that awarding bodies apply to ZAQA for the registration of qualifications only after the relevant authorities have accredited the associated learning programs.
Another significant change includes the requirement for employers to verify the qualifications of potential employees before hiring. Section 29 prohibits both public and private sector employers from employing individuals without verified qualifications, aiming to enhance workforce integrity. Non-compliance could result in fines or imprisonment.
Additionally, awarding bodies are now required to submit learner achievement records to ZAQA within 90 days of awarding qualifications. This new requirement is expected to streamline the verification process and improve efficiency in recognizing qualifications, further supporting the international mobility of Zambian qualifications.
Mrs. Ngoma encouraged the public to utilize the verification services available on the ZAQA website, noting that verification is a one-time process. The new Act is accessible for download on both the Parliament and ZAQA websites, with hard copies available at the Government Printers.
In closing, Mrs. Ngoma reiterated the need for all stakeholders, including the media, to actively advocate for adherence to the new Act. She expressed confidence that the enactment of the Zambia Qualifications Authority Act No. 8 of 2024 would significantly enhance the governance of qualifications in Zambia, fostering a culture of quality education and training.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their invaluable participation in the review process,” Mrs. Ngoma concluded, inviting questions from the audience to engage further on the new legislative framework.
