UNICOHS urged to strengthen professional training
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TechnologyGovernment has urged UNICOHS University College to strengthen professional training, research and innovation to produce competent graduates who can contribute to national development. Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Kelvin Mambwe, said the institution should continue…
Government has urged UNICOHS University College to strengthen professional training, research and innovation to produce competent graduates who can contribute to national development.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Kelvin Mambwe, said the institution should continue investing in technology and quality academic programmes to ensure graduates meet the required academic and professional standards.
Dr Mambwe said this in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry of Skills and Higher Education Director, Brian Mukufele, during the installation of Professor Mutuku Mutinga as the first Chancellor of UNICOHS University College in Lusaka today.
He noted that the installation marked an important milestone in the institution’s development, providing renewed leadership and strengthening its commitment to academic excellence.
Dr Mambwe urged Professor Mutinga to work closely with the University Council, management, academic staff and students to enhance the institution’s reputation and promote partnerships for growth.
“The installation of a Chancellor represents renewed hope, leadership, institutional growth and a commitment to academic excellence,” he said.
Meanwhile, newly installed Chancellor for UNICOHS University College, Mutuka Mutinga called on higher learning institutions to align academic programmes with the changing needs of society and industry to accelerate national development.
He urged universities to prioritise practical and relevant skills that enable graduates to develop innovations and provide solutions to challenges facing communities.
Professor Mutinga said Zambia’s higher education sector had recorded significant growth, with more than 60 universities and colleges registered by the Higher Education Authority.
He also called for increased technical and vocational training opportunities at tertiary level to equip young people with practical skills required by industries.
“Universities should ensure that education translates into practical solutions to the challenges facing our communities,” he said.
And UNICOHS University College Executive Director, Humphrey Monde, said the appointment came at a critical time when the institution was experiencing growth in student enrolment and infrastructure development.
Dr Monde said Professor Mutinga was expected to provide strategic guidance, safeguard academic integrity and promote the institution’s vision of delivering quality and accessible education.
He said management was committed to working with the Chancellor to uphold academic excellence, transparency, accountability and integrity.
“The Chancellor’s role is central to guiding the institution’s growth while safeguarding its values and academic integrity,” Dr Monde said.
Professor Mutinga previously served as Chairman of the UNICOHS University College Council, Vice Chancellor of Rusangu University, and has held various leadership positions in higher education institutions in Zambia and Kenya.
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