• by Unzalaru
• (0) Comments

UNZALARU HAILS PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA’S DIRECTIVE TO ADDRESS  THE LONG-STANDING CRISIS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA 

THE UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA LECTURERS AND RESEARCHERS’ UNION  (UNZALARU) 

PRESS STATEMENT 

The University of Zambia Lecturers and Researchers’ Union (UNZALARU) applauds the directive  issued by His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema to relevant ministries (Education,  Health, Infrastructure, and Water Development and Sanitation) to take immediate action in  addressing the water and sanitation challenges at the University of Zambia (UNZA) and other  public universities. 

The crisis at UNZA has persisted for a long time without a lasting solution. We are encouraged  that, before a widespread outbreak of waterborne diseases could occur, decisive steps have been taken to contain the situation. The President has demonstrated strong leadership by  recognizing that reliable access to water and sanitation is essential to the health, well-being,  and fundamental dignity of the University community. Indeed, for education to truly serve as  an equalizer for many of our learners, a safe and supportive learning environment is essential. 

The academic staff at the University of Zambia also welcome the directive to the Ministry of  Education and the University of Zambia Management to resolve long-standing issues affecting  staff. For the avoidance of doubt, staff members are owed terminal benefits spanning more  than a decade. ZSIC superannuation benefits have remained unpaid since 2012, gratuities  date as far back as April 2016, and pensions have been outstanding since August 2021. 

This situation has had devastating consequences for staff, with some colleagues tragically  passing away before receiving their rightful benefits. Others are grappling with mental health  challenges and, in some cases, are unable to maintain a decent standard of living in retirement. As of February 2026, the total outstanding amount for gratuities and pensions stands at  K838.7 million, comprising approximately K391.9 million for gratuities and K446.8  million for pensions. Notably, a significant portion of gratuities owed relates to 30 April  2016, where 392 staff members are owed approximately K44.7 million. In addition, over K500 million remains outstanding in ZSIC superannuation benefits. 

The President may wish to note that staff at the University of Zambia would greatly appreciate  the liquidation of these terminal benefits. This will allow the institution to focus on its core  mandate of advancing learning and research in the country. It will also enable the University to address pressing operational challenges, including the root causes of the current water and  sanitation crisis, student accommodation, and the inadequate office and teaching space. For  years, staff have remained trapped in a vicious cycle of lobbying for their dues, with only  minimal progress achieved. This persistent struggle has continued to disrupt the smooth  functioning of the institution. 

It is our hope that the President’s intervention in the current crisis will accelerate the resolution  of these long-standing issues, enabling UNZA to maintain its status as Zambia’s premier public  university. As an alumnus of the institution, the President’s involvement gives us renewed  confidence and pride. 

UNZALARU deeply regrets the loss of a student’s life before the water and sanitation challenges  could be resolved. We mourn the passing of Emmanuel Bwalya, a second-year student in the  School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends,  students, and the entire University community during this difficult time. 

On behalf of UNZALARU on this day of 01 April 2026