Syakalima Highlights the Impact of Free Education in Zambia
Zambia’s Education Minister, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, has highlighted the profound impact of the country’s Free Education policy, stating it has provided an opportunity for over two million children to stay in school and avoid becoming societal challenges.
The Minister made these remarks during the Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association’s fundraising gala dinner in Lusaka.
Since the introduction of Free Education in 2021, more than two million children have been enrolled in schools, a statistic that would have been impossible without the policy. Hon. Syakalima emphasized that, without free education, these children would have likely been left to roam the streets, which could have led to an increase in social unrest and crime.
“Education is not just about academic and moral learning; it also plays a key role in social control,” said Syakalima. “By keeping children in school for a set period each day, we are deterring them from engaging in illicit activities, which could harm both their futures and our communities.”
Hon. Syakalima, who is also the Member of Parliament for Chirundu, acknowledged the challenges posed by the rise in student numbers but argued that this was a better situation than having children left to wander aimlessly in the streets.
He also revealed that, in the past two years, the government had employed over 40,000 teachers to bridge the teacher-pupil ratio gap and was investing in the production and rehabilitation of desks to improve classroom conditions.
“The government is committed to education as a cornerstone for national growth. We are expanding access, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of teaching across all levels,” he said.
The Minister also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the organisers of the historic first-ever Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association reunion and fundraising event, acknowledging their vision and generosity in supporting the school.
Rusangu Secondary School Alumni Association Chairperson, Mike Mwemba, explained that the funds raised during the event would go towards constructing two female dormitories at the school.
He urged all past students of Rusangu Secondary School to give back to the institution that shaped their futures.
