COBUSU Prime Minister Calls for Industry-Driven Curriculum Reform
The Copperbelt University Students union (COBUSU) Prime Minister Moonde Onesmus has called on the government and education stakeholders to align Zambia’s higher education curriculum with industry demands in order to enhance graduate employability and national productivity.
Speaking during the Higher Education Indaba held at Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone under the theme “Unlocking Zambia’s Potential Through New Investment in Quality Education,” the Prime Minister said education remains the foundation for national progress but must be practical, relevant, and responsive to the country’s economic needs.
Mr. Moonde, who represented students from across the country, commended the government for expanding access to education through the free education policy and other reforms. However, he noted that overcrowding in universities has become a major challenge, urging the Ministry of Education to invest in infrastructure expansion and recruit more lecturers to improve the student–lecturer ratio.
He further called for stronger collaboration between universities and industries to ensure that academic programmes are relevant to the job market. The Prime Minister proposed that institutions introduce more practical training and internship opportunities to equip students with hands-on skills that meet the expectations of employers. He also appealed for the revision of outdated curricula to make degrees more meaningful and productive to Zambia’s growing economy.
In addition, the Prime Minister urged the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) to consider providing laptops to students, particularly those in rural areas, to bridge the digital divide and promote equal access to online learning. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring reliable internet connectivity in universities, colleges, and even secondary schools to support effective teaching and learning.
The student leader also stressed the need for continuous professional development for lecturers so that they can keep pace with technological advancements and deliver quality education. He encouraged fellow students to adopt a forward-looking mindset that promotes innovation, unity, and patriotism, saying youth participation is important in national development.