By Arnold Tutu
Former Senator and alumnus of the University of Zambia -UNZA, LUKE SIMPEMBA has called on the Government to fast-track a comprehensive modernisation programme at the country’s leading university.
In a statement issued to ZNBC news, as a concerned citizen and former senator, Mr. SIMPEMBA described UNZA as Zambia’s premier institution of higher learning, noting its unmatched legacy in producing leaders across the judiciary, business, academia, healthcare, and politics.
He said the university has produced three Zambian Presidents, the current Head of State, a President of Zimbabwe, former Prime Ministers of Uganda and Namibia and many other leaders.
While commending the Government for initiatives to improve student welfare, including the fast-tracking of new hostels, Mr. SIMPEMBA urged a broader strategic investment to restore and enhance UNZA’s global competitiveness.
He called for engagement with strategic partners, including the Republic of China, to secure support for the proposed modernisation project.
The proposed programme prioritises the following infrastructure developments:
New Administration and Senate Block: A modern, iconic building to house the Senate and key administrative offices.
Modern Sports Complex: A facility with a mini-stadium and swimming pool to promote student health, welfare, and athletics.
Multipurpose International Conference Centre: Seating 1,500 to 2,500, with modern lecture theatres to host national and international events.
AI, Robotics and High-Performance Computing Data Centre: A cutting-edge centre for artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced research to support innovation and national-scale analytics.
Mr. SIMPEMBA also called on UNZA alumni to contribute to the university’s development and announced plans to work with Vice-Chancellor Professor MUNDIA MUYA on constructing a new main gate, supported by a public outreach and crowdfunding campaign.
“The UNZA Modernisation Project is not merely an infrastructure initiative; it is a strategic investment in Zambia’s intellectual capacity, innovation potential and global relevance,” Mr SIMPEMBA said.
The appeal has been copied to Professor MUNDIA MUYA, Vice-Chancellor of UNZA, and Education Minister DOUGLAS MUNSAKA SYAKALIMA, Minister of Education.
