Union Awards UPND 95% in Education

Muyumba on behalf of NUPPEZ highlighted progress in school infrastructure, curriculum, and higher education support

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 -(23-08-2025) - The National Union for Public and Private Educators of Zambia (NUPPEZ) has rated the United Party for National Development (UPND) government at 95 percent in the education sector, citing unprecedented teacher recruitment, free education, expanded school infrastructure, and timely payment of salaries and retirement benefits as major milestones.

Union executive president Victor Muyumba said at a press briefing in Lusaka that in the past four years, the government had undertaken reforms that significantly enhanced access to education, though challenges such as the high cost of living and delays in teacher upgrading still remain.

Muyumba commended the government for recruiting thousands of teachers, saying the move not only reduced unemployment but also improved the teacher-pupil ratio, thereby raising the quality of education across the country. 

He further noted that the introduction of free education has eased the burden on families, enabling more children, especially from vulnerable households, to attend school without financial barriers.

He added that infrastructure expansion under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other initiatives had led to the construction of additional classrooms, addressing congestion in many schools and creating a more conducive learning environment. 

According to him, this investment in infrastructure will have a lasting impact on education delivery in both rural and urban areas.

The union leader also highlighted curriculum reforms, which he said have aligned Zambia’s education system more closely with modern demands, equipping learners with relevant skills. 

He praised the government for ensuring the timely payment of salaries and retirement benefits, which has boosted morale among serving teachers and restored dignity to retirees.

However, Muyumba cautioned that while progress in the education sector is commendable, challenges still exist. 

He cited the rising cost of living, which continues to undermine teachers’ welfare, and delays in upgrading qualified teachers to higher positions, which affect motivation and career progression. 

He urged the government to urgently address these issues to sustain and build upon the gains made so far.

Muyumba reaffirmed NUPPEZ’s commitment to working with the government to advance education in Zambia.

He stressed that the union would continue to provide constructive feedback and advocate for policies that prioritize both teachers and learners.