By 
Learners from Kamwala Secondary School and Libala Stage 3 Secondary School have been offered an educational exchange programme in Uganda after impressing a visiting delegation during a debate marking Zambia’s 62nd Independence celebrations.
The offer followed a debate held at Chilenje House National Monument, where the learners demonstrated strong debating skills and presented arguments that impressed the Ugandan visitors.
Afrika Mashariki Fest Group Chief Executive Officer, Ronex Kisembo Tendo, said the delegation was ready to work with the National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) and the Zambian Government to facilitate the proposed exchange.
Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Committee adopts amended decision on Victoria Falls
In a statement issued on Saturday, Tendo said the programme would expose learners to different experiences, broaden their perspectives and provide opportunities for intellectual engagement with their Ugandan counterparts.
Tendo, who is also a member of the Uganda Bikers Association, said the initiative was aimed at investing in young people’s intellectual development while strengthening relations between Zambia and Uganda.
He expressed optimism that arrangements could be made for the learners to travel to Uganda, noting that Uganda Airlines operated flights to Lusaka.
NHCC Executive Director, Kagosi Mwamulowe, said the offer demonstrated the potential of heritage sites to promote education, cultural exchange and tourism.
He said the Commission had turned what initially appeared to be a concern over noise from the visiting bikers’ motorcycles into an opportunity for meaningful engagement.
“If you have got a lemon, you have to turn the lemon into lemonade,” Mwamulowe said.
He said heritage conservation should extend beyond protecting historical buildings and objects to include activities that promote education, community participation and sustainable development.
Mwamulowe said Chilenje House, which was once occupied by Zambia’s founding President, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, provided an important setting for young people to learn about the country’s independence struggle and reflect on the responsibilities of leadership.
Also speaking at the event, Jimmy Akena Obote, son of Uganda’s former President Milton Obote, said Africa’s founding leaders had laid important foundations for the continent despite limited resources and few examples to guide them.
“Their sacrifices and vision should continue inspiring efforts to address challenges in education, nutrition, housing and other essential areas,” Obote said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments