LUSAKA - Residents of Zebe-Zebe in Rufunsa District and Makululu Compound in Kabwe will soon benefit from new Community Learning Centres aimed at expanding access to education and skills training for youths and adults.
The two facilities are being constructed under the Bridge Zambia Project Phase II (2026–2030), a partnership between the Ministry of Education, the Zambia National Commission for UNESCO and the Korea National Commission for UNESCO.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Educational Services Dr. Kelvin Mambwe said the centres would promote lifelong learning by providing educational opportunities beyond the formal classroom.
Represented by Director of the Directorate of Open and Distance Education, Inutu Kalumiana, Dr. Mambwe said the centres would equip community members with practical skills, entrepreneurship training and other knowledge to improve their livelihoods.
"Education does not end with formal schooling. As our economy, technology and labour market continue to evolve, lifelong learning has become essential for individuals and communities to adapt, grow and seize new opportunities," Dr. Mambwe said.
He added that the project aligns with Zambia Vision 2030, the Eighth National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goal 4, all of which promote lifelong learning.
Dr. Mambwe also commended the Zebe-Zebe Multipurpose Cooperative Society for contributing land, labour and local expertise towards the project.
Meanwhile, Zambia National Commission for UNESCO Secretary General Heather Munachonga said the initiative reflects the long-standing partnership between Zambia and the Republic of Korea, which has supported community learning initiatives since 2010.
She said the centres belong to the communities because local residents have been involved in the project from the planning stage through implementation.
"One of the greatest strengths of the Bridge Zambia Project is that it is driven by the communities it serves," she said.
Ms. Munachonga also thanked the Korea National Commission for UNESCO for its continued investment in Zambia's education sector.
In remarks delivered on behalf of the Korea National Commission for UNESCO, Assistant Secretary General Hyunsook Seo described the centres as places that will provide a second chance for people who missed out on formal education.
"Community Learning Centres are far more than buildings. They are spaces of hope where children, youth and adults who have been left behind by formal education can find a second chance," she said.
Once completed, the centres are expected to offer literacy programmes, vocational skills training, entrepreneurship education and other community development activities for people of all ages.
Source: Kalemba | By: George Musonda