ZAM challenges ZCAS graduates

Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) President Mohammed Umar has called on 1,077 ZCAS University graduates to become job creators and contribute to national development through innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience. Mr Umar said that the country’s biggest challenges…

Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) President Mohammed Umar has called on 1,077 ZCAS University graduates to become job creators and contribute to national development through innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience.

Mr Umar said that the country’s biggest challenges present opportunities for young people to develop solutions that can be transformed into businesses.

Mr Umar made the remarks when he graced the 10th ZCAS graduation ceremony at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, today.

Mr Umar said the country’s greatest asset is its people, particularly the energy, creativity, intellect and determination of young citizens.

He said education remains the bedrock of Zambia’s national development agenda, as it produces skilled professionals who can drive economic diversification, strengthen institutions and develop solutions across various sectors.

Mr Umar has since urged ZCAS University to strengthen research, innovation, industry partnerships and community engagement in the next decade.

Speaking at the same event, ZCAS University Chancellor Professor Tukiya Mabula called on universities to go beyond imparting theoretical knowledge and produce graduates capable of driving innovation, entrepreneurship and national development.

Dr Kankasa said higher education institutions must equip students with practical skills and ethical values that respond to the changing needs of society and the global economy.

She said universities have a responsibility to prepare graduates not only to participate in the changing world of work, but also to help shape it.

Dr Kankasa stated that digitalisation, artificial intelligence, changing labour markets and global competition are fundamentally reshaping the world of work, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

And Dr Kankasa urged ZCAS graduates to embrace lifelong learning and use their acquired knowledge to create value in their communities and the country.

She further encouraged the graduates to uphold excellence, integrity, innovation, accountability and service wherever their careers take them.