“EDUCATION SYSTEM MUST BE LINKED TO INDUSTRY”
By Mary Kachepa
Government has called for the development of stronger linkages between the education system and the industrial sector to ensure graduates have relevant and employable skills.
Education Minister DOUGLAS SYAKALIMA says improving literacy levels among citizens is cardinal if Zambia is to meet its development goals and aspirations.
Mr. SYAKALIMA says literacy is a prerequisite to education, empowerment and economic development both at national and individual level.
He says a literate nation enables its citizens participate in knowledge economies, make informed decisions and seek opportunities to better their lives.
Mr. SYAKALIMA adds that government has prioritized education as a means of achieving rapid social economic development.
Speaking during the Bi- annual Pan African Literacy for All Conference in Lusaka today, Mr. SYAKALIMA said government looks at education as one of the key potential ingredients for job creation and economic development.
Mr. SYAKALIMA further noted that every child regardless of their social status is entitled to quality education and literacy plays a fundamental role in enhancing quality education.
He said Zambia’s Youth literacy rate currently stands at 55- point 3-percent with women being much more pronounced than men.
The Minister said times have changed and children do not only require basic literacy but literacy to engage with everyday life activities and use of different technologies.
Meanwhile Bank of Zambia Representative RITA CHANDA said basic literacy is important because financial literacy is anchored on it.
She said financial literacy is key for the development of any nation because it enables people make smart decisions on how to earn, save and spend money.
And International Literacy Association Executive Director MARCIE GRAIG POST said there is need to invest in teachers and provide adequate support to enhance the quality of education.
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