Lusaka, Zambia — Education Minister, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, has underscored the indispensable role of the media as a partner in driving educational quality and accountability across Zambia.
Speaking at the 2025 ZANEC Education and Skills Sector Media Awards in Lusaka on Tuesday, the Minister stated that the media is crucial in ensuring government reforms translate into tangible improvements for learners.
“As media, you have the power to expose gaps in school infrastructure, teacher deployment, financing, and learning outcomes. You also hold the key to promoting accountability in higher education governance and academic freedom,” Hon. Syakalima said.
The Minister outlined specific areas where media awareness is vital, including national policies on free education, the re-entry policy, early childhood development reforms, and the student loan and scholarship system. He emphasized that the government has adopted a holistic approach to education delivery from early childhood through university to ensure accessibility for all.
Hon. Syakalima urged the media to actively help build an education system that uplifts every child and secures the nation’s future.
Echoing the call for deeper engagement, ZANEC Chairperson, Mr. Henry Kabwe, encouraged journalists to move beyond surface-level reporting. He advocated for analytical journalism that provides critical context to developments within the education sector.
The ceremony served to honour media professionals for their exemplary work. Awards were presented to winners from several institutions, including ZANIS, the Daily Mail, and Money FM, recognizing their outstanding contributions to education reporting.
