Government Plans to Include Refugees in Loan Schemes

By Francis Maingaila and Jean Mandela

Lusaka, Zambia – (17-022025) – The Ministry of Education has pledged to enhance access to higher education financing by extending student loan eligibility to learners in technical, vocational, and entrepreneurship training institutions.

Speaking during the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) stakeholder consultations on the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Layman’s Draft at Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka, Education Ministry Permanent Secretary for Administration, Noriana Muneku, emphasized the government's commitment to inclusive education funding.

“The classification of students now encompasses those enrolled in technical education, vocational, and entrepreneurship training institutions. Additionally, initiatives are in place to ensure that no deserving learner is excluded, with financial aid provided through dedicated funding programs,” Muneku stated.

She further suggested the possibility of extending student loans to refugees, noting that education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of nationality.

“We are exploring ways to include refugees in student loan schemes, as part of our broader commitment to inclusive education and human capital development,” she said.

Participants at the meeting welcomed the initiative, stressing the importance of sustainable funding mechanisms that support a broad spectrum of educational pathways.

The consultations are expected to shape policy recommendations for a more inclusive higher education financing framework.

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