ZAMREN Boosts Digital Learning at Livingstone College of Nursing and Midwifery

By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Research and Education Network has commissioned internet connectivity to student halls of residence at Livingstone College of Nursing and Midwifery in a major step toward strengthening digital learning and improving access to online academic resources for nursing and midwifery students.

The initiative, officially commissioned this week, is expected to transform the learning environment for more than 400 students by enabling round-the-clock access to digital learning platforms, medical research materials, and virtual collaboration tools directly from their hostels.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Administration, Joma T. Simuyi, described the project as a strategic investment in the country’s future healthcare workforce.

“Access to reliable internet is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity,” Mrs. Simuyi said.

She noted that extending internet access beyond classrooms and libraries into student residences would ensure that learning continues beyond formal lecture hours.

“This initiative empowers students with the digital tools required for continuous learning, innovation, and quality healthcare delivery,” she said.

Mrs. Simuyi further disclosed that the project was implemented under a 50-50 cost-sharing model at a total investment of K119,000, reflecting a strong partnership between the institution and Zambia Research and Education Network in advancing digital transformation within Zambia’s education and health sectors.

Speaking at the same event, Stein Mkandawire said the initiative demonstrates ZAMREN’s commitment to building inclusive digital learning environments across Zambia.

Mr. Mkandawire observed that internet connectivity in many higher learning institutions has traditionally been confined to lecture rooms, libraries, and administrative offices, despite academic work continuing long after formal classes end.

“This is about bringing learning closer to the student,” he said.

He added that direct connectivity to student hostels would allow learners to study, conduct research, participate in virtual classes, and collaborate with peers from the comfort of their residences.

“This intervention ensures students have equal access to digital resources whenever they need them, not just during scheduled lecture hours,” he said.

And Head of Livingstone College of Nursing and Midwifery, Samuel Chintingiza, welcomed the development and thanked ZAMREN and its partners for supporting the institution.

Mr. Chintingiza said the connectivity project would significantly improve the learning experience and strengthen the college’s ability to deliver technology-driven nursing education.

He urged students to use the internet responsibly and productively to enhance their academic performance and professional development.

“This is a resource that should be used to support learning, innovation, and growth as future health professionals,” he said.

Also Speaking on behalf of ZAMREN Board Chairperson Mundia Muya, Vice Board Chairperson Pinalo Chifwanakeni said the project represents far more than internet infrastructure.

He described it as an investment in opportunity, knowledge, and the future of education in Zambia.

He reaffirmed ZAMREN’s commitment to expanding similar initiatives to institutions across the country to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to digital learning opportunities.

The Livingstone College project builds on similar digital connectivity initiatives implemented by Zambia Research and Education Network, including internet connectivity at the University of Zambia’s Ruins Hostels, which has significantly improved student access to online learning resources.

For Livingstone College of Nursing and Midwifery—Southern Province’s leading nursing and midwifery training institution—the development marks a major milestone in modernising education delivery.

As Zambia continues to invest in digital transformation, stakeholders say initiatives like this are essential in preparing a technologically equipped health workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern healthcare systems.