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The Zambian government has put forth a substantial proposal for the education sector, suggesting an allocation of K31.5 billion in the 2025 National Budget.
This funding, which represents 14.5 percent of the overall budget, is aimed at enhancing educational access and quality across the country.
A key highlight of this allocation was the recruitment of 2,000 new teachers, a move designed to improve the teacher-pupil ratio and bolster the educational framework.
Finance and National Planning Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, presented the budget to the National Assembly at the Parliament Building in Lusaka on Friday.
During his address, he stated the importance of education as a cornerstone for national development.
He announced that K2.3 billion of the proposed budget would be allocated for grants to early childhood education, primary, and secondary schools, reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintaining free education for all children.
“I have allocated K2.6 billion to education infrastructure, of which K1.6 billion is for the construction of 120 secondary schools, while K300.5 million is for the completion of stalled hostel projects at the Copperbelt University, the University of Zambia, and other public universities,” Musokotwane stated.
This investment in infrastructure is crucial for creating conducive learning environments and accommodating the growing number of students.
To further support educational outcomes, the Minister highlighted government’s commitment to enhancing the School Feeding Programme, proposing an increase in its allocation to K534.4 million for 2025.
“This initiative is designed to keep learners in school and improve learning outcomes,” he noted, acknowledging the vital role nutrition plays in students’ academic performance.
In addition, the budget proposal included K150 million earmarked for the implementation of a new national education curriculum, which aims to foster lifelong learning and entrepreneurship.
Musokotwane expressed optimism that this curriculum would equip students with practical skills essential for success in the modern job market.
Through these measures, the government is striving to create a robust educational framework that not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the foundation for future growth and development in Zambia.
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