CBU, UCF sign MoU to build chemistry Laboratory

The Copperbelt University and United Capital Fertilisers (UCF), a subsidiary of the Wonderful Group of Companies Limited, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to undertake the construction of a state of the art chemical laboratory. The agreement will also support…

The Copperbelt University and United Capital Fertilisers (UCF), a subsidiary of the Wonderful Group of Companies Limited, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to undertake the construction of a state of the art chemical laboratory.

The agreement will also support training delivery, strengthen internship and scholarship programmes in chemical engineering, infrastructure, and other initiatives.

Speaking shortly after the signing ceremony, the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development, Siakazongo Siakalenge commended the agreement between the two parties, noting that it highly aligns with the government’s economic and development vision through the ‘Growth Zambia Agenda’.

Mr Siakalenge emphasised that the MoU underscores the importance of developing a technologically skilled as well as an innovative human capital base, particularly in manufacturing and human capital with the aim of growing the economy.

“Especially in emerging sectors such as fertiliser manufacturing. Investing in human capital today lays the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient economy tomorrow,” he said.

He has since encouraged exploration of additional collaborations in advanced engineering and manufacturing sectors, which will contribute meaningfully to President Hakainde Hichilema’s developmental vision for Zambia.

In his welcome remarks, the Wonderful Group Chief Executive Officer, Roy Mwamba highlighted that the group is focused on the Grow Zambia Agenda aligned with the government’s vision, citing that the best investment is investing in people.

He mentioned that they had indicated earlier that their Urea fertiliser plant needed about 400 chemical engineers, disclosing that as the company continues to expand in just a few weeks to come the company will hold a groundbreaking ceremony of the expansion of the Amonia Urea plant at a cost of 1.5 billion United States dollars.

“With this expansion, there is a need for greater integration and Copperbelt University will collaborate closely with the group of companies to achieve this vision,” he said.

Earlier prior to the signing of the MoU, Copperbelt University Vice Chancellor Imasiku Nyambe stated that the MoU represents a crucial step in bridging the gap between universities and the industry.

Professor Nyambe commended the government for fostering collaboration between academia and industry, noting that President Hakainde Hichilema has continually championed such developments.

He also expressed gratitude to the Wonderful Group for their significant contributions to the country’s growth through substantial investments to be undertaken at the Copperbelt University.

Professor Nyambe, a beneficiary of industry scholarship further highlighted that CBU students will highly benefit from the increased professional exposure, scholarships and knowledge exchange to be implemented through the MoU.

“Opportunities, all of which will uplift their families, communities and the nation at large, he stated.

He noted that the construction of a chemical laboratory, a lecture theatre, and student accommodation will facilitate easier learning at the institution, emphasising that these developments are made possible by a supportive environment created through government efforts.

And Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kelvin Mambwe, later emphasised that the MoU is highly significant, especially as it aligns with the Grow Zambia agenda.

Dr Mambwe highlighted that it provides students with valuable exposure to practical work opportunities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to education and initiatives that attach great importance to national development.