“Higher Education Reforms Announced”
… Decentralization, financial streamlining, and enhanced standards aim to boost quality and economic impact
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (26 -08 – 2024) – Prof. Kazhila Chinsembu, Director General of the Higher Education Authority (HEA), has revealed plans to overhaul Zambia’s higher education sector to boost its quality and influence on national development.
In a briefing with vice chancellors and industry leaders at the International Hotel, Prof. Chinsembu announced, “The HEA will decentralize its operations to enhance oversight and better address local educational needs.”
He underscored the role of higher education in fostering innovation and economic growth, aiming for a notable contribution to Zambia’s GDP by 2028.
Prof. Chinsembu emphasized the revised Higher Education Act’s focus on research and innovation. “We must apply academic ideas practically to drive real progress,” he said.
He also proposed a single salary structure across public universities to improve financial management and efficiency.
“A unified salary system will help manage resources more effectively,” he noted.
The Director General called on universities to adjust their budgets to reduce costs and increase performance.
“Aligning financial practices with our economic development goals is essential,” he added.
New regulations will enforce tighter controls to address gaps in graduate training and improve education standards.
“These measures are designed to ensure our graduates meet high standards and are well-prepared,” he said.
Prof. Chinsembu also encouraged universities to engage with local communities, adopt modern technologies like artificial intelligence, and maintain cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge.
He advocated for merit-based professorships and adherence to guidelines to uphold academic integrity.
“Credibility in research is crucial; avoid publishing in predatory journals,” he advised.
Prof. Chinsembu warned that institutions not meeting the new standards could face accreditation issues and announced the implementation of a centralized admission system.
“This new system will streamline student enrollment and align with institutional resources,” he concluded.