Support private varsities – Unilus
GOVERNMENT should increase the incentives offered to local entrepreneurs in the education sector to enable them to invest in the development of infrastructure and equipment for training of students, University of Lusaka (Unilus) has said.
The building of education infrastructure has become expensive in Zambia.
Speaking at the university’s seventh graduation ceremony in Chongwe yesterday, Unilus Chancellor Caleb Fundanga said people needed to be educated but not all eligible candidates could afford to pay for themselves.
“I know that Government student loans are available but only to those enrolled at public universities. We are humbly requesting your good office to consider allowing students in private universities to [also] access these loans,” Dr Fundanga said.
He said the transformation of education delivery in Zambia depended on improved standards in learning institutions.
“This can only be achieved if we work together as different players in the sector. We appreciate the support that Government has rendered to us over the years and continues to give. However, we feel that more can be done,” Dr Fundanga said.
Minister of Higher Education Brain Mushimba said Government appreciated the role private universities, particularly the University of Lusaka, played in the provision of quality education to both Zambians and foreigners.
“I have followed the growth of this university with admiration. The University of Lusaka has gradually grown from its humble beginnings in rented institutions at Kambendekela House to Pioneer Campus,” Dr Mushimba said.
He said he was pleased to witness such type of development and great investment in education.
It was encouraging to see Zambian entrepreneurs coming up with such investments without crying for government handouts.
“I urge other universities, including public ones, to emulate Unilus. Let me put it on record; my government appreciates the works that Unilus is doing in taking advantage of the conducive environment which my government has provided.
We will do everything possible to help such institutions as Unilus to grow and continue to provide quality education to the Zambian students and hose from other countries,” he said.
This can only be achieved if we work together as different players in the sector. We appreciate the support that Government has rendered to us over the years and continues to give. However, we feel that more can be done.