Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has officially launched the National Education Policy 2025, describing it as a transformative roadmap aimed at reshaping Zambia’s education system to meet modern global demands and ensure no learner is left behind.

Speaking during the launch in Lusaka today, Dr Syakalima said the policy marks the first comprehensive review of Zambia’s education framework in nearly three decades, replacing the 1996 education policy “Educating Our Future.”

Dr Syakalima said the new policy which is under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow’s Future” responds to changing economic, technological and social realities by promoting quality, inclusive and lifelong education anchored on skills development and innovation.

“Our education system must evolve in step with new realities. The National Education Policy 2025 responds directly to these realities with a clear vision of quality, inclusive and relevant lifelong education and skills training that will empower society,” he said.

The minister also launched the Competence-Based Assessment Tools developed by the Examination Council of Zambia, including Assessment Schemes and School-Based Assessment Guidelines for primary and secondary schools.

“For 33 years, people spoke about free education and questioned where the money would come from. Today, free education has become law because government made deliberate and prudent decisions to invest in the future of our children,” Dr Syakalima stated.

And Examinations Council of Zambia Executive Director, Michael Chilala described the launch as a historic turning point in Zambia’s education transformation agenda.