Zambia boasts several reputable universities that offer quality education across various disciplines. In this article, we will be exploring the top 5 universities in Zambia:
Contents:
- University of Zambia (UNZA)
- Copperbelt University (CBU)
- Mulungushi University
- University of Lusaka (UNILUS)
- Africa Christian University
University of Zambia (UNZA):
The University of Zambia (UNZA) stands as Zambia’s oldest and largest institution of higher learning. Its origins trace back to the early 1950s when initial discussions about establishing a university in Lusaka began. However, these plans were shelved with the creation of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland in 1953, which led to the establishing a university college in Salisbury (now Harare) instead.
The idea was revived in the early 1960s, driven by the nationalist government that came into power in December 1962. In March 1963, the government appointed the Lockwood Commission, chaired by Sir John Lockwood, to explore the feasibility of establishing a university in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). The commission’s report, submitted in November 1963, recommended the establishment of a university in Lusaka.
The Zambian government accepted these recommendations, and by July 1964, the Provisional Council of the University was formed. The University of Zambia was legally established by Act Number 66 of 1965, and the first intake of students occurred on March 17, 1966. The university was officially opened by President Kenneth Kaunda on July 12, 1966, who also laid the foundation stone for the Great East Road Campus.
Features:
Campuses and Facilities
UNZA operates two main campuses in Lusaka: the Great East Road Campus and the Ridgeway Campus. The Great East Road Campus is the primary campus, housing the majority of the university’s faculties and administrative offices. The Ridgeway Campus, located in the Ridgeway area of Lusaka, is home to the School of Medicine and other health-related programs.
Academic Programs
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of study. These include faculties of Agricultural Sciences, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. UNZA is known for its strong emphasis on research and development, contributing significantly to Zambia’s academic and professional landscape.
Research and Innovation
UNZA has a robust research culture, with numerous research centers and institutes dedicated to various fields. The university’s research output has had a significant impact on national development, particularly in areas such as agriculture, health, and social sciences. The institution collaborates with both local and international partners to advance research and innovation.
Student Life
The university hosts a vibrant student community, with numerous clubs, societies, and sports teams. These extracurricular activities provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and pursue personal interests. The university also offers various support services, including counseling, career guidance, and health services, to ensure the well-being of its students.
Alumni
UNZA boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions to various sectors, including government, business, academia, and civil society. The university’s alumni network is active and engaged, providing support and mentorship to current students and recent graduates.
The University of Zambia has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Zambia. With its rich history, diverse academic programs, and commitment to research and innovation, UNZA continues to be a beacon of higher education in the region. Its motto, “Service and Excellence,” reflects the university’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and serving the community.
Copperbelt University (CBU):
The university’s creation was part of a broader effort to decentralize higher education in Zambia and make it more accessible to students in the Copperbelt region. The government reconstituted the University of Zambia at Ndola into Copperbelt University, while the University of Zambia at Lusaka continued as UNZA.
Features
Campuses and Facilities
CBU operates multiple campuses, with the main campus located in Kitwe. The university also has campuses in Lusaka, Ndola, and Chinsali, each offering specialized programs. The main campus in Kitwe is known for its lush, green environment and modern facilities, providing a conducive atmosphere for learning and research.
Academic Programs
Copperbelt University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties. These include:
- School of Business: Known for its strong programs in business administration, economics, and finance.
- School of Engineering: Offers degrees in civil, electrical, mechanical, and mechatronics engineering, among others.
- School of Built Environment: Provides programs in architecture, real estate, urban and regional planning, and construction economics management.
- School of Natural Resources: Focuses on forestry, wood science, and environmental management.
- School of Medicine: Offers medical and health-related programs.
- School of Mines and Mineral Sciences: Specializes in mining engineering, geology, and related fields.
Research and Innovation
CBU is committed to advancing research and innovation. The university has several research centers and institutes dedicated to various fields, including the Dag Hammarskjöld Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies. The university’s research efforts are geared towards addressing national and regional challenges, particularly in the areas of mining, engineering, and environmental sustainability.
Mulungushi University:
Mulungushi University (MU) is one of Zambia’s three public universities, established in 2008 through a public-private partnership between the Zambian Government and Konkola Copper Mines. Before becoming a university, it was known as the National College of Management and Development Studies.
The university’s main campus is located 26 kilometers north of Kabwe, on the banks of the Mulungushi River. This site is historically significant as it is near the Mulungushi Rock of Authority, a place often referred to as the birthplace of Zambian independence. The rock was a secret meeting place for Kenneth Kaunda and the Zambian African National Congress during the independence struggle.
Features:
1. Campuses and Facilities
Mulungushi University operates three campuses:
- Great North Road Campus: The main campus, located near the Mulungushi River, is known for its serene environment and modern facilities.
- Kabwe Town Campus: Situated in the heart of Kabwe town, this campus offers various academic programs and houses administrative offices.
- Livingstone Medical School: Located at Livingstone General Hospital, this campus focuses on medical and health sciences.
2. Academic Programs
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several schools:
- School of Agriculture and Natural Resources: Programs in agricultural economics, agribusiness, natural resources, and environmental sciences.
- School of Social Sciences: Includes departments such as social development studies and economics.
- School of Business Studies: Offers degrees in business administration, law, labor, and human resource management.
- School of Engineering and Technology: Provides programs in computer science, information technology, and engineering.
- School of Natural and Applied Sciences: Includes departments of mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, and biology.
- School of Education: Focuses on various educational disciplines.
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences: Offers programs in basic sciences, pharmacology, and anatomy.
3. Research and Innovation
Mulungushi University is dedicated to advancing research and innovation. The university has several research centers and institutes that focus on various fields, including agriculture, health, and social sciences. The institution collaborates with both local and international partners to enhance its research capabilities.
Mulungushi University continues to be a beacon of knowledge and service in the region. Its motto, “Pursuing the Frontiers of Knowledge,” reflects the university’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and serving the community.
University of Lusaka
History
The University of Lusaka (UNILUS) is a prominent private university in Zambia, established in 2007. It was founded by Dr. Pinalo Chifwanakeni, who also serves as the Vice-Chancellor. Initially, the institution began as the Institute of Corporate Training and Research (ICTAR), focusing on providing master’s degree programs in partnership with the Copperbelt University.
In 2008, UNILUS introduced its own bachelor’s degree programs, and by 2009, it began offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs independently. The university has grown significantly since its inception, with student enrollment rising from 71 in 2007 to over 11,500 students today.
Features:
1. Campuses and Facilities
UNILUS operates three campuses in Lusaka:
- Main Campus: Located in the heart of Lusaka, this campus houses the majority of the university’s faculties and administrative offices.
- Pioneer Campus: Situated in a serene environment, it provides a conducive atmosphere for learning and research.
- Silverest Campus: This campus focuses on health sciences and related programs.
2. Academic Programs
The University of Lusaka offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several schools:
- School of Business and Management: Programs include Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Economics.
- School of Law: Offers Bachelor of Law and other legal studies.
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences: Provides degrees in Public Health, Medicine, and Nursing.
- School of Education, Social Sciences, and Technology: Includes programs in Education, Real Estate Management, Politics, and Information Systems.
3. Research and Innovation
The university collaborates with various local and international organizations to enhance its research capabilities. It focuses on addressing contemporary issues in business, law, health, and social sciences.
4. Conclusion
The University of Lusaka has established itself as a modern hub of higher learning in Zambia. With its rich history, diverse academic programs, and commitment to research and innovation, UNILUS continues to be a beacon of quality education in the region. Its motto, “Passion for Quality Education: Our Driving Force,” reflects the university’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and serving the community.
Africa Christian University (ACU):
History
The vision for ACU was to create a university that would not only offer academic excellence but also integrate faith into every aspect of learning. This vision was further developed when Dr. Ken Turnbull, a former Organic Chemistry Professor from the University of Arkansas, joined the effort. Dr. Turnbull, along with other church leaders, worked tirelessly to establish the university.
In December 2008, the vision for ACU was formalized through a meeting between the elders of four Reformed Baptist Churches in Lusaka and Dr. Turnbull. By 2009, a Board was set up to direct ACU’s development, and non-profit organizations were established in the United States and South Africa to support the university.
ACU officially began its academic programs in March 2016 with the launch of the Scholars Programme. Dr. Conrad Mbewe was appointed as the first Chancellor, and Dr. Ken Turnbull as the Vice-Chancellor. In 2015, Dr. Voddie Baucham accepted the position of Dean of the ACU Seminary.
Features:
1. Campuses and Facilities
ACU operates from its main campus in Lusaka, which is equipped with modern facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities. Moreover, the campus provides a serene environment conducive to learning and spiritual growth.
2. Academic Programs
The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to integrate faith and learning. These programs include:
- School of Business: Offers degrees in Business Administration, Economics, and related fields.
- School of Education: Provides programs in various educational disciplines.
- School of Theology: Focuses on theological studies and pastoral training.
- School of Health Sciences: Offers programs in Public Health and related fields.
3. Research and Innovation
ACU emphasizes research that addresses both local and global challenges from a Christian perspective. The university collaborates with various local and international organizations to enhance its research capabilities. Research at ACU is aimed at finding practical solutions to issues such as poverty, health, and education.
Africa Christian University is dedicated to providing higher education that integrates faith and learning. With its rich history, diverse academic programs, and commitment to research and innovation, ACU is poised to make a significant impact on the educational landscape of Zambia and beyond. Its motto, “Integrating Faith and Learning,” reflects the university’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Conclusion
These universities play a crucial role in shaping Zambia’s future by producing skilled graduates and contributing to research and innovation. Whether you’re interested in traditional campus-based education or flexible online learning, Zambia’s universities offer diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth.
References:
University of Zambia:
Wikipedia:
Britannica:
Copperbelt University:
WELCOME TO COPPERBELT UNIVERSITY
Wikimili:
Mulungushi University:
University of Lusaka:
African Christian University:
