By Joy Nyambe
President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated that education remains one of Zambia’s most critical economic sectors, describing it as the best investment, equaliser, and inheritance for the nation.
Speaking during the silver jubilee celebration of the Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) in Lusaka, President Hichilema paid tribute to teachers for their vital role in national development. He pledged continued government support to the education sector, including sustained teacher recruitment and improved learning environments.
The Head of State also commended BETUZ for strengthening the sector by prioritising teacher welfare, noting that the union’s growth reflects the government’s transformative policies.
Education Minister Douglas Syakalima, who also addressed the gathering, described teachers as “the oxygen of the country.” He announced that government is finalising the construction of 165 secondary schools nationwide, alongside additional schools supported by the World Bank. He further highlighted that by 2025, 53,000 students are on bursaries and loans compared to 23,000 in 2021.
BETUZ General Secretary Henry Sinkala said President Hichilema’s presence at the jubilee celebration demonstrates the premium the UPND government attaches to education. He noted that over 40,000 teachers have been recruited in the past four years, with BETUZ membership rising from 35,000 in 2021 to more than 72,000 in 2025. He also outlined investment ventures aimed at improving teachers’ livelihoods.
During the event, BETUZ honoured President Hichilema for his outstanding contribution to the education sector.
