The Higher Education Authority (HEA) has called on higher education institutions to prioritise investments in research infrastructure and foster a culture of research among students and faculty members.
Dr. Martin Mushumba, HEA Director for Quality Assurance, emphasized that such efforts would not only advance knowledge but also elevate the global reputation of Zambian institutions.
“As the year 2025 begins, all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Zambia must respond with remarkable inspiration by establishing the right academic environment,” Mushumba said.
He urged HEIs to enhance their academic environments to provide students with high-quality education that meets international standards.
Mushumba stressed that hiring qualified teaching staff would ensure students benefit from expertise in various fields, preparing them for the challenges of the global job market.
“This will not only enhance the learning experience but also prepare students for the challenges of the global job market,” he added.
Mushumba highlighted the importance of adequate infrastructure, such as modern classrooms, ICT facilities, well-equipped laboratories, lecture theatres, and student accommodation.
He also called for HEIs to adopt comprehensive curricula developed through stakeholder engagement and updated regularly to meet evolving job market demands.
“HEIs must ensure they have a well-developed curriculum approved by relevant professional bodies and accredited by the Higher Education Authority,” Mushumba said.
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Additionally, he encouraged institutions to invest in research strategies, computer laboratories, libraries, and internal quality assurance mechanisms.
Mushumba underscored the need for well-qualified management staff, robust policies, and statutes to enhance operational efficiency.
“This comprehensive approach is essential to improve the quality of education and halt compromises in teaching and learning across Zambia’s higher education sector,” he said.
Mushumba reaffirmed that a focused approach to quality assurance, infrastructure development, and research could transform Zambia’s higher education landscape and position its institutions competitively on a global scale.
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