NATIONAL ASSEMBLY LAUNCHES INSTITUTE FOR PARLIAMENTARY STUDIES AND TRAINING

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Posted by admin on March 17, 2026 at 5:51 AM

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The Zambia National Assembly has officially launched the Institute for Parliamentary Studies and Training.

Speaking at the launch, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti said the institute will provide structured, continuous, and professional learning for Members of Parliament (MPs) and parliamentary staff.

“This institute will provide structured, continuous, and professional learning for MPs and staff. I am confident it will serve not only the current Parliament, but future Parliaments for generations to come,” she said.

Mutti described the initiative as a significant milestone in Zambia’s democratic journey, expressing hope that the institute will grow into a centre of excellence not only for Zambia but for the region.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima, represented by Assistant Director Planning and Information, pledged the ministry’s support, noting that the work being done lays a foundation for generations to come.

The initiative has drawn praise from regional partners, with SADC Parliamentary Forum Secretary General Boemo Sekgoma commending Zambia’s leadership for the forward-looking move.

“This institute will evolve into a vibrant centre of knowledge and excellence for the entire region,” Sekgoma said.

Civil society also welcomed the development. Healthy Learners’ Head of Policy and Government Engagement Kuleta Kapati said the institute will help MPs represent citizens better and advocate for sustainable learner well-being.

Parliamentarians themselves expressed confidence in the institute’s impact. Mwembeshi MP Machila Jamba noted that many misconceptions exist about MPs’ duties, with constituents often expecting them to deliver roads and hospitals.

“This institute will help MPs understand their true role. Like Kenya and Ghana, Zambia now joins the few African countries with such an institute, and it will bring real progress,” Jamba said.

The launch positions Zambia among a select group of African nations with dedicated parliamentary training institutes, aimed at enhancing professionalism, accountability, and effective representation in the August House.