The National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) has launched the NAPSA Student Chapter Programme aimed at extending social security coverage to students in higher learning institutions across the country.
Speaking during the launch in Lusaka, NAPSA Managing Director Muyangwa Muyangwa said the initiative marks a significant milestone in the Authority’s efforts to build a more inclusive social security system.
Mr Muyangwa said the programme seeks to introduce young people to social security at an early stage in life and promote a culture of long-term financial planning.
He observed that social security has traditionally been viewed as a matter for people in formal employment or those approaching retirement, resulting in many citizens joining the system too late to fully benefit from it.
Mr Muyangwa explained that NAPSA believes social security is a right for every Zambian and that the best time to begin planning for life beyond employment is during one’s youth.
He stated that the Student Chapter Programme will provide a structured platform through which students can learn about social security, financial planning and savings.
He disclosed that the programme will initially benefit thousands of students from institutions such as the University of Zambia (UNZA), Mulungushi University, Copperbelt University (CBU), Lusaka University, ZCAS University and Evelyn Hone College, among others.
He noted that the Authority is shifting its focus from serving only those in formal employment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their income source, have access to social security services.
He further revealed that NAPSA plans to establish student chapters in learning institutions across all ten provinces over the next five years.
Mr Muyangwa said the Authority is also developing new products aimed at responding to the changing needs of citizens.
And Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary (PS)
Zacharia Luhanga said the government considers social protection a key pillar of national development and remains committed to strengthening the social security sector through progressive reforms.
He said recent reforms are aimed at improving benefits, expanding coverage, enhancing service delivery and ensuring that social security systems remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment.
Mr Luhanga noted that technological advancements, the growth of the digital economy, entrepreneurship and flexible forms of employment are transforming the world of work, particularly for young people.
The PS commended NAPSA for introducing the Student Chapter Programme, stating that it will help prepare young people for financial security and encourage greater participation in the country’s social protection system.
