HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS TO IMPROVE SERVICES DELIVERY

  

By Daily News Reporter

We need to build a new system for the higher education that can convert ideas into novel goods and services to help double the economy by 2031…………

The Director-General of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and key stakeholders in the higher education sector, including Vice-Chancellors of universities, Principals of university colleges, and industry stakeholders engaged.

This gathering aimed to foster collaboration between higher education institutions and industry, ensuring that education and training are aligned with the current and future needs of the job market.

Speaking the engagement meeting in Lusaka for Vice Chancellors of Universities, Principals of University Colleges and Industry Stakeholders, Higher Education Authority (HEA) Director General Professor Kazhila Chinsembu emphasized the importance of closer collaboration between universities, university colleges, and industry stakeholders to enhance the relevance of academic programs.

That they is need to focus on aligning curriculum development with industry demands to produce graduates with the necessary skills for the job market.

Professor Chinsembu highlighted the need for maintaining high standards of education and research within universities and university colleges, they is need for continuous improvement in teaching methods, research output, and the overall quality of higher education institutions.

And Industry stakeholders shared insights on the current skills gaps in the workforce and how universities can tailor their programs to address these deficiencies.

The meeting explored strategies for implementing more practical and experiential learning opportunities within academic programs.

The discussions included ways to encourage research and innovation within higher education institutions that are directly relevant to industry needs.

Partnerships between academia and industry for research funding and collaborative projects were considered essential for advancing technological and scientific innovation.

Professor Chinsembu urged the participates to build strong networks with industry players to facilitate student placements and employment.

He added that the authority wants funding to public universities to be defined by a set of performance indicators and outcomes, adding that criteria based on quality , relevance viability, course of degree completion and graduate employability shall play a significant role in determining the funding to public universities

The meeting also addressed various challenges faced by higher education institutions, including funding limitations, infrastructure needs, and faculty development. Opportunities for digital transformation, including the integration of online learning and digital tools, were discussed as means to enhance educational delivery and access.

There was a consensus on the need for a robust regulatory framework that encourages innovation while ensuring compliance with educational standards. Development of action plans to strengthen partnerships between universities, university colleges, and industry stakeholders.

Commitments from all parties to work collaboratively towards enhancing the quality and relevance of higher education. Agreement to hold regular follow-up meetings to review progress and address ongoing challenges in the higher education sector.

The meeting was a crucial step towards fostering a more integrated approach to higher education and industry collaboration, aiming to create a workforce that is better equipped to meet the needs of the country's economy and development goals.