NCC Sets New Training Standard

Situmbeko says the two diplomas introduced Courses are all approved by TEVETA and supported by government

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka,  Zambia24, Sept. 4, 2025 – The National Council for Construction (NCC) has launched Zambia’s first-ever diploma programmes in Highway Engineering and Building Construction Works Monitoring and Management to address the country’s persistent skills gap in the construction sector.

Unveiled in Lusaka with support from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, the programmes are designed to produce diploma-level technicians and supervisors—the “missing middle” between engineers and artisans—whose absence has long undermined project quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Speaking on behalf of Permanent Secretary Prof. Albert Malama, Mr. Denis Simpwizi said the courses mark a turning point in workforce development.

“For far too long, our construction sector has lacked site supervisors, quality assurance technicians, and building technologists. That gap ends today,” he said.

The diplomas, approved by the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA), began on August 11, 2025, and are offered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) via the Moodle eLearning platform, complemented by mandatory one-month practical sessions.

Building Technical Capacity

NCC Board Chairperson Eng. Ngenda Situmbeko said the courses will directly strengthen technical capacity across the sector.

“Zambia’s construction industry is only as strong as its workforce. These programmes set a new benchmark for technical excellence,” he said.

He added that the initiative will also empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which make up most NCC-registered contractors, by equipping them with skilled supervisors capable of delivering projects to international standards.

The NCC has pledged equitable access to the programmes, particularly for women and youth, and plans to expand through Open and Distance Learning. Partnerships with TEVETA, the National Road Fund Agency (NRFA), and industry associations will help keep training relevant.

Stakeholder Support

TEVETA Chief Executive Officer Victor Zumani welcomed the launch, stressing that technical training must deliver both skills and quality.

 “Skills acquisition is only one part; producing graduates who can deliver quality work in industry is equally important,” he said, noting TEVETA’s role in ensuring training standards and equipment meet requirements.

NRFA Chief Executive Officer Vernon Ngulube linked the initiative to Zambia’s broader infrastructure deficit, particularly in rural areas.

 “Quality has long been a challenge in road construction. By focusing on sustainable financing and rigorous oversight, we will ensure roads are built to standard while building local capacity,” he said.

The NRFA has already trained 252 participants in materials testing, contract management, and project oversight, with further phases planned for provincial teams.

Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors (ZIQS) President Timothy Musole underscored the urgency of building technical skills, citing the country’s housing deficit of 1.5 million units and the fact that only a quarter of Zambia’s 67,000 kilometres of roads are paved.

 “Infrastructure is not just about roads and buildings—it is about dignity, access, and opportunity. These students are pioneers who will ensure projects are executed efficiently and sustainably,” Musole said.

A Strategic Milestone

NCC Executive Director Paul Makasa described the diplomas as part of the Council’s broader mandate to build technical capacity, strengthen supervisory skills, and align training with evolving industry standards.

“This initiative demonstrates what is possible when policy, partnerships, and purpose align. NCC is proud to be developing a pipeline of skilled professionals to serve Zambia’s infrastructure sector,” Makasa said.

Eng. Wendy Mukape, Principal of the National Construction School, called the launch a historic milestone for Zambia.

“Our students are not just learners; they are pioneers setting the standard for thousands who will follow. These programmes will ensure graduates are industry-ready from day one,” she said.

The launch was attended by senior government officials, representatives from TEVETA, NRFA, ZIQS, industry stakeholders, students, and members of the press.

The programmes are expected to reduce reliance on imported skills, boost local contractors’ competitiveness, and position Zambia as a regional leader in construction capacity-building.