Government Commends Private Sector’s Role in Expanding Education Access Through CDF
Lusaka, Zambia – January 31, 2025 – The Zambian government has lauded Eden University for its efforts in broadening access to education through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Speaking at the university’s inaugural ceremony for CDF beneficiaries, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Garry Nkombo, MP, praised the institution for its collaboration with the public sector in advancing human development and entrepreneurship.
Hon. Nkombo highlighted the significance of the initiative in supporting the government’s commitment to education and skills development. Addressing a gathering that included university leadership, faculty members, students, and government officials. He acknowledged Eden University’s role in leveraging the enhanced CDF allocation of K36.1 million per constituency to support students from various districts.
“It is commendable that a private university such as Eden University, with a student population exceeding 13,000, has embraced my ministry’s enhanced CDF. This demonstrates the strong synergies between the public and private sectors and underscores the priority that His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, has placed on education and entrepreneurship,” Hon. Nkombo stated.
Currently, 596 students from districts such as Chilubi Island, Chipangali, Chipata, Gwembe, Katete, Lavushimanda, Lundazi, Magoye, Mazabuka, Mumbwa, Petauke, and Sinazongwe are benefiting from CDF sponsorship at Eden University. These students are enrolled in programs spanning ICT, Agri-Business, Hospitality, Education, Clinical Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Business Studies.
Hon. Nkombo urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity and emphasized the transformative power of education in shaping their futures.
“To the students supported by CDF, approach this opportunity with dedication and commitment. Education is a powerful tool that will define your success,” he encouraged.
He also called on Eden University to expand the initiative to benefit even more students across the country. Concluding his remarks, Hon. Nkombo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering partnerships that enhance educational access and empower future generations.