Mutati Commends TEVET Growth and AI Integration Ahead of Parliament Dissolution
Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati has commended principals of Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) institutions for their role in advancing skills development and embracing technology-driven education reforms in Zambia.
Mr Mutati met TEVET institution principals to bid them farewell ahead of the dissolution of Parliament, following the launch of the ZAMREN Artificial Intelligence Learning Pilot Project for ten institutions and the handover of AI learning gadgets.
Speaking during the meeting, Principals’ Forum Chairperson Daniel Nyirenda praised Government’s continued investment in upgrading learning institutions and strengthening skills-based education through the Ministry of Technology and Science.
Mr Nyirenda said the Ministry’s efforts to integrate Artificial Intelligence, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship into the TEVET curriculum would help produce an industry-ready workforce through stronger apprenticeships and partnerships with industry stakeholders.
The Principal of Ukwimi Trades Training Institute also called on Government to expedite the enactment of the Innovation and Inventors Bill, stating that it would improve operational efficiency within institutions.
He further commended Government for expanding sponsorship and scholarship opportunities through the Constituency Development Fund bursary programme, which has contributed to a significant increase in student enrolment from 30,000 in 2021 to more than 100,000 in 2026.
The principal also praised policies promoting gender inclusion, noting that more than 35 per cent of young women are now enrolled in skills development programmes.
Meanwhile, Director of Vocational Education and Training at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Precious Lisulo, disclosed that the Ministry had received an initial US$3 million towards preparatory activities from a planned US$80 million World Bank grant aimed at scaling up skills development initiatives.
Ms Lisulo said the funding would soon begin flowing directly to institutions for programme implementation.
In his remarks, Mr Mutati thanked principals for their resilience, dedication, and commitment to quality service delivery in TEVET institutions across the country.
He encouraged them to continue using resources prudently and maintain high standards in delivering technical and vocational education.
Mr Mutati further reaffirmed Government’s commitment to utilising the US$80 million World Bank grant to expand postgraduate training opportunities equitably across TEVET institutions.
The Minister noted that TEVET institutions had become increasingly attractive due to collective efforts and improved management of resources.
He also informed the principals that although he would proceed on short leave ahead of Parliament dissolution, he remained committed to national service and achieving further milestones for the country.
