Hh Meets King Charles Iii, Calls For Stronger Zambia-uk Collaboration.

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for deeper collaboration between Zambia, the United Kingdom, and other global partners in order to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to address today’s economic and climate challenges.

Speaking at a high-level roundtable discussion hosted by King Charles III at Dumfries House in Glasgow, President Hichilema said education remains a central pillar of his administration’s agenda. He stressed the need for curricula that not only deliver academic learning but also provide practical skills to drive economic growth and resilience.

The Head of State highlighted Zambia’s landmark free education policy, which has enabled millions of children to access learning opportunities, alongside expanded artisanal and skills training programmes to boost employability among the youth.

“We must prepare our young people for today’s economic realities and tomorrow’s challenges, especially climate change,” President Hichilema said.

King Charles III officially received President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at Dumfries House, his private residence in Glasgow. Earlier in the day, the King hosted the Zambian delegation for a guided tour of the Dumfries Estate, followed by a reception and later a dinner in honour of the visiting President and First Lady.

President Hichilema expressed appreciation to King Charles for the warm hospitality, praising the monarch’s leadership in promoting climate awareness and sustainable development. He also urged the global community to embrace responsible stewardship of natural resources, cautioning that “instability anywhere is instability everywhere.”

During the visit, The King’s Foundation showcased its international work in sustainability and education, which engages more than 15,000 students annually in practical training rooted in tradition, nature, and community development. The Foundation’s initiatives in sustainable farming, food systems, horticulture, and climate awareness reflect Zambia’s own drive to link education with sustainable livelihoods.

President Hichilema reaffirmed his government’s commitment to working with partners such as the United Kingdom to ensure education remains a driver of innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth.

The visit and discussions, according to First Secretary for Press at the Zambian High Commission in the UK, Speedwell Mupushi, underscored Zambia’s growing recognition on the global stage for its efforts in advancing universal education and sustainable development.