Texila Sets New Standard in Zambian Higher Education

Combining academic excellence with cutting-edge infrastructure and global recognition.

Combining academic excellence with cutting-edge infrastructure and global recognition.

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia – 19 June 2025

Texila American University Zambia (TAUZ) has been awarded Tier 1 status by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA), placing it at Level 10, the highest classification on the Zambia Qualifications Framework.

The announcement was made during a press conference in Lusaka, where Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajay Poddar described the recognition as a major endorsement of the university’s academic standards.

“This ranking confirms the quality and relevance of our academic programmes and our role in Zambia’s higher education sector,” Prof. Poddar said.

He announced that TAUZ has introduced two new PhD programmes in Public Health and Management, which have already enrolled students. The programmes are aimed at strengthening research capacity and leadership in the region.

The university has earned international recognition, including accreditation from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), enabling its medical graduates to practice in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and India. It is also recognised by the Health Professions Councils of South Africa and Namibia.

Prof. Poddar said the university is pursuing international clinical training opportunities for students, pending approval from Zambia’s Health Professions Council (HPCZ).

TAUZ has invested in a 150-panel solar energy project to provide clean, reliable power and has opened a modern dissection laboratory for on-campus medical training.

The university currently has over 400 on-campus students, more than 300 in clinical rotations, and over 2,000 enrolled in distance and blended learning, representing over 20 countries.

Through the Dr. Saju Bhaskar Foundation Scholarship, launched in 2017, TAUZ provides up to 100% tuition waivers to academically qualified students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The university has established partnerships with institutions including the Zambia Medical Association, Zambia Public Health Association, Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Zambia Institute of Marketing to strengthen academic-industry collaboration.

A graduation ceremony is scheduled for July, and the university is also awaiting final results from a recent assessment by the British Accreditation Council (BAC).

Also speaking at the press conference, Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Balamurugan Easwaran reaffirmed TAUZ’s alignment with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4, which promotes inclusive and quality education.

“Our focus is on building human capital and strengthening healthcare systems by training skilled professionals,” he said.

He outlined the university’s strategic framework based on seven pillars: infrastructure, research and consultancy, clinical care, diversity and inclusivity, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, community integration, and quality education.

Dr. Easwaran emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academic training and employment needs. “We want our graduates to be ready for the workforce immediately upon graduation,” he said.

TAUZ’s academic offerings include Master of Public Health, Masters in Health Programs, and PhD programmes in Public Health and Management. Its research activities are approved by the National Health Research Authority (NHRA), ensuring adherence to international standards.

He confirmed that the university had recently undergone a three-day inspection by the BAC and is awaiting formal accreditation.

“Our goal is to meet global benchmarks and enhance the credibility of our academic programmes,” Dr. Easwaran said.

He concluded by highlighting TAUZ’s commitment to practical, hands-on training that prepares students for real-world challenges.