Unions not banned in public universities - Luo

Minister of Higher Education, Nkandu Luo has dispelled assertions circulating on social media and some sections of society that unions have be banned in public universities.

Prof. Luo said the information circulating on social media is wrong and misleading.

She clarified that government did not ban union activities but introduced a new model of unionism called ‘Guild’.

Prof. Luo explained that unions have moved from the old leadership structure that only allows a few students to participate in union activities to a more inclusive model.

ZANIS reports that the Minister was speaking during a Press Briefing in Lusaka today.

Prof. Luo said students in public universities were given ample time to research on the Guild model, which they have since accepted.

She stated that workshops were held at various higher learning institutions where students were educated on the Guild concept.

Prof. Luo said from the trainings conducted students accepted and embraced the new model of leadership as it was more inclusive compared to the unionism model.

She disclosed that most public universities and colleges have already written new constitutions so as to domestic the Guild concept.

The High Education Minister cited the University of Zambia (UNZA) as one of the higher learning institutions that has already written a new Guild Constitution.

Prof. Luo further said the Acting Dean of students is yet to announce the date when the new constitution will be launched.

She hoped that with the new leadership concept, riots will reduce in institutions of higher learning.

Source: Lusaka Times