President Hakainde Hichilema has assured students across the country that the government will continue working closely with the youths for enhanced national development in the education sector.
President Hichilema says the Free Education Policy, increased bursaries, and the reinstatement of meal and accommodation allowances, demonstrates the government’s commitment towards ensuring that youths have access to quality education.
The media reports that the Head of State was speaking in Kitwe , during an interaction with students from more than 20 institutions on the Copperbelt Province.
President Hichilema noted that the government will continue improving infrastructure in schools, colleges and universities, as well as addressing accommodation challenges.
He further expressed gratitude to the students for the confidence they have shown in the government’s efforts to resolve challenges in the education sector.
And Students’ Union representatives from various universities have thanked the President for what they described as positive strides in the education sector, particularly the reinstatement of meal and accommodation allowances.
Copperbelt University Students’ Union President Given Chipewo said most colleges and universities have recorded an increase in the number of students benefiting from bursaries under the Constituency Development Funds (CDF).
Mr Chipewo noted that the government increased meal allowances from K1,000 to K4,000 to support students from vulnerable households.
He added that the Copperbelt University, which has been facing accommodation challenges, has witnessed significant infrastructure development, including the construction of a 1,000-capacity lecture theatre.
Mr Chipewo further stated that the province has experienced notable economic growth and commended President Hichilema for introducing initiatives such as Cash for Work aimed at supporting students and vulnerable citizens.
Meanwhile, Mukuba University Vice President Regina Mwanga also thanked President Hichilema for ensuring that meal allowance is reinstated.
Ms Mwanga said the meal allowances have helped students to uphold moral values and focus on school activities.
And Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo thanked the students for recognising the milestones the government has recorded in the education sector, and other areas of national developmen
