President Hakainde Hichilema says Government will work with the students’ leadership and the institution’s management to address various problems affecting the University of Zambia (UNZA).
President Hichilema said it is government’s mandate to finish the incomplete hostels in order to deal with the students’ accommodation crisis at the institution.
Speaking when he addressed students at the institution, the President assured students that government through the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation will address the sanitation challenges facing the institution.
President Hichilema also revealed that government reinstated meal allowance to help students focus on studies only rather than their financial challenges as well.
“We brought back meal allowance to chase away sugar daddies,” he said.
The Head of State added that government through the Ministry of Science and Technology and Ministry of Education is working towards incorporating E-learning in all public institutions of learning.
“We will also resolve legacy issues affecting lecturers and workers whose pensions have not yet been paid, we shall pay them,” he said.
And speaking at the same event, UNZA Vice Chancellor, Professor Annie Sikwibele said the management has done enough in constructing laboratories and lecture theatre facilities.
Professor Sikwibele added that despite these efforts the institution still lacks enough accommodation and lecture theatres both at Great East Road and Ridgeway campuses.
She further applauded government for appointing the council that will oversee the operations of the university.
Meanwhile, the University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU) President Chandra Choongo said the students are happy with government’s recent efforts in supporting higher education institutions in the country, despite some individuals criticising positive developments.
“We are happy that meal allowance for the students was reinstated after a ban that lasted for five years,” he said.
Choongo However, appealed to the Head of State to reduce the interest rates on student loans and increase allowances for students, adding that this will make students concentrate on studies and further reduce financial problems.
Co-written by Caren Nambela