UNZA Vice Chancellor gratified

University of Zambia Vice Chancellor, Professor Stephen Simukanga has expressed gratitude over the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Christian Blind Mission (CBM).

Professor Simukanga said it is clear that the investment is huge by any standards and is proud to be associated with such an undertaking because it will benefit an average of 1000 persons with disabilities per year from different parts of the country.

He said that this is the first time in history of the university where students with disabilities have been enrolled in a number of programmes through the department of Educational Psychology, Sociology and Special Education.

Professor Simukanga said much is still required to be done to fully cater for the needs of the many students with disabilities who are increasingly joining the university.

He affirmed that the center shall be housed in the School of Education under the department of Educational Psychology, Sociology and Special Education.

He said this will improve the quality of graduates that are produced in the field of Special Education and further enhance the service with excellence.

The occasion was also addressed by Regional Capacity Development Officer, Nomvuyo Mabusela who represented the Mission.

Ms Nomvuyo congratulated the university staff and management for their efforts and commitment during the planning phase of the proposal.

She said the partnership and synergy with UNZA has the potential to position both CBM and UNZA as leaders in disability specifically in the field of Special Needs Education at Tertiary level in Africa.

And Ministry of Education Director of Planning and Development, David Ndopu Ndopu was among the speakers at the event.

Mr Ndopu said that people tend to ignore one group of the society, the people with disabilities and that support has come at the right time to motivate the disabled.