The Movement for Restoration of Education and Teachers Affairs in Zambia (MORETA Zambia) has called on President Hakainde Hichilema to take decisive action against those behind the M-SAT scandal in the Ministry of Education, following revelations of a K3.6 million scam.
The 2023 Auditor General’s Report exposed the scam in which M-SAT, a private company, charged schools across all 10 provinces K800 each for E-census software, a scheme that duped the education sector into significant financial loss.
MORETA Zambia reported the matter to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on October 15, 2024, for a thorough investigation.
Speaking in a statement on Tuesday, MORETA Executive Director, Dr. Sam Mbumba, stated the need for accountability and urged Hichilema to use the incident to enforce discipline within the civil service.
“The M-SAT scam has exposed weaknesses in the Ministry of Education but also presents an opportunity for growth and improvement,” Mbumba stated.
He stressed that while mistakes could occur, those that cost the nation dearly must be avoided.
Read More:Group slams ministry of education’s M-SAT project as avenue for looting funds in schools
“We need to hold those responsible for this scam accountable to serve as an example to others. This is a moment to bring sanity and ensure our leaders uphold the highest standards of integrity,” Mbumba said.
He praised leaders who admitted their mistakes, describing such acknowledgment as a rare strength, but reiterated that the incident should be a turning point to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Mbumba urged stakeholders in the education sector to support efforts to reform the ministry and stand firm until justice was served.
“Let us work together to build a better future for our children and our country by ensuring justice prevails and accountability is prioritized,” he said.
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