President Hichilema Awarded Champion of Foundation Learning Role

President Hakainde Hichilema has become the first ever Champion of Foundation Learning in Africa.

The Association for the Development of Education in Africa sent a request for the President to take up the role which aligns with his passion for investing time and resources in education. Education Minister Douglas Syakalima called it a “momentous occasion and a significant stride towards improving education across our Continent.”

The President will be at the forefront of advocating for early childhood learning. The President will also encourage other Heads of States, Governments and other stakeholders to improve the foundational apparatus for education to flourish in Africa, and address the present education poverty.

Currently, 87.9% of children are enrolled in primary schools, and 42.9% are enrolled in secondary schools. Increasing the figure of secondary enrolment is a key target for President Hichilema, following the introduction of the government’s free education for all policy during its first year in office.

A particular focus is being paid on helping girls remain in school, striving for the benefit of secondary education, stronger career prospects, and reducing the rates of adolescent pregnancy and child marriage. One initiative working on this is the ‘Girls2030 Project’, which helps provide financial, literary, and career guidance to teenage girls.