National Action for Quality Education in Zambia [NAQEZ] says it  expects the Minister of finance to allocate 21% of the total national budget to the education sector.

In a statement made available to Tumfweko News , NAQEZ Executive director Aaron Chisha says the 16.5% in the current budget has proved to be extremely inadequate.

“NAQEZ expects the next budget to specifically allocate funds for purchase of 10,000 computers if the country is to make computer studies an integral part of the education system.”

MR Chisha has also called for  an increase of teachers salaries in next year’s budget and the recruitment of not less man 8, 000 teachers next year.

“We also expect our gallant teachers to be handsomely motivated next year. Next year’s budget must ensure that teachers receive salary pay rise, are upgraded in scales and receive other relevant allowances. This will be important in our quest to improve quality of education in thecountry.

“NAQEZ further expects explicit budgetary allocation for the recruitment of more than 8,000 teachers in 2018.The current policy of recruiting 5,000 per year has not helped matters due to the fact that the profession losses more than 7,000 teachers per year. We need more teachers if the country is committed to tackling the frightening teacher- pupil ratios in public schools.”

The NAQEZ Executive director has also emphasized the need to put aside money for the speedy construction of universities in 3 provinces.

“It will also be important if the 2018 budget will put aside money for speedy construction of Universities in Western, Northern and Luapula provinces. We feel that these great projects deserve to be completed sooner rather than later.

NAQEZ would also want to insist on the operationalisation of the student loan scheme. We strong feel that adequate funds must be in the 2018 budget for the purpose of this scheme. It’s very important for the social and economic development of Zambia.”

He has also called for the next budget to carter  the purchase of equipment for schools.

“ The next budget should allow for the purchase of equipment which will enable schools to begin to teach practical subjects like Agricultural Science, Carpentry, Brick laying, Music and Metal work. These subjects are critical if the country is serious about implementation of the new curriculum.

“We therefore strongly appeal to the Minister of finance to seriously consider increasing the

allocation to this very important sector, from 16.5% to 21%, in the 2018 budget.”