UK Praises Government’s Free Education Policy

The United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa Vicky Ford has praised the Zambian government for implementing its free education policy, which she says will allow children the opportunity to fulfil their potential and develop their abilities. 

Ms Ford said the UK government would support Zambia’s free education policy, in particular improving access for girls to quality education. She also explained that the UK was working with the Zambian government to construct secondary schools in underserved areas.

The minister’s comments came during a visit to the Mulola Primary School in Chongwe district, where she addressed stakeholders on the challenges experienced by girls attending schools. Mulola is now the 100th school to be supported by the British Council’s climate connection program, which is aimed at enabling school children to take action against climate change. 

In January, the New Dawn government delivered on its cornerstone manifesto promise to provide free education for all primary and secondary school children. The topic is of personal importance to President Hakainde Hichilema , who attended school in Monze barefoot before being admitted to the University of Zambia on a full government bursary.

Speaking at the visit in Chongwe, Education Minister Douglas Siakalima addressed stakeholders on the detrimental practice of marrying off female children at an early age. He said that girls should instead be encouraged to get an education in order to access equal opportunities to their male contemporaries. 

He explained that the government had taken several steps to deter the practice of underage marriage, including providing sanitary kits and a comprehensive sexuality education program in schools.

He added that the free education policy was expected to reduce the number of drop outs and improve attendance for girls.