Syakalima rejects claims students were paid to welcome HH

Education Minister Douglas Syakalima has rejected allegations that students were paid to attend an event linked to President Hakainde Hichilema, stating that no allowances or financial inducements were authorised by government.

The clarification follows claims circulating in public discussions suggesting that learners at Northern Technical College (NORTEC) had received money to welcome the Head of State during a visit. Syakalima said the assertions were inaccurate and did not reflect government policy governing student participation in national activities.

According to the minister, institutions of learning operate under guidelines that prohibit the use of financial incentives to mobilise students for political or ceremonial purposes. He said participation at the NORTEC event was voluntary and organised through normal institutional arrangements rather than external inducements.

Syakalima indicated that government officials engaged with leadership at the institution to establish what transpired and to verify reports circulating on social platforms. The ministry, he added, sought to ensure that the welfare and integrity of students remained protected amid heightened public attention.

The controversy emerged after differing narratives surfaced regarding logistical support provided to students. Some commentators interpreted arrangements related to transport and coordination as evidence of financial inducement. The minister, however, said logistical support should not be confused with cash payments.

He maintained that education authorities remain focused on maintaining an environment that shields learners from political exploitation. Syakalima said the ministry continues to monitor engagements between national leaders and tertiary institutions to ensure that policies protecting students are respected.

Officials stressed that participation by learners in public events is not unusual, noting that students frequently engage in national programmes and civic activities as part of broader educational exposure. The ministry said such involvement does not automatically imply political mobilisation or monetary incentives.

The issue has drawn reactions from various stakeholders, including political figures and commentators who questioned whether institutions were being used to mobilise support. Government representatives responded by reiterating that no verified evidence had been presented showing that students received payments.

Syakalima also addressed suggestions that institutional authorities had facilitated inducements, stating that leadership at the college had denied any wrongdoing. He said the ministry would continue to engage with institutions to ensure transparency and adherence to established guidelines.

The minister emphasised that protecting the credibility of Zambia’s education system requires clarity around how students participate in national engagements. He urged members of the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation, adding that the ministry remains open to addressing concerns through official channels.

Meanwhile, discussions around the NORTEC event have expanded into broader debates about the role of students in political and civic life. Authorities say the ministry is committed to safeguarding academic environments while maintaining opportunities for learners to interact with national leadership in a structured manner.

Government officials reiterated that no student was paid to meet President Hakainde Hichilema and that any claims suggesting otherwise misrepresent the facts surrounding the event. The ministry said it would continue to provide updates if further clarification becomes necessary.