THE University of Zambia Student Union (UNZASU) has shared that their recent demonstration at State House was not a political maneuver, but rather an act of appreciation to the developmental efforts of President Hakainde Hichilema.
On Tuesday, a jubilant crowd of UNZA students led by the newly elected students’ union president Kabaso Mwanto marched to State House following elections of the new UNZASU executive and were received by President Hichilema.
But UNZASU president Kabaso Mwanto explained that the demonstration was meant to send a powerful message that students and youths in particular remain committed to supporting government’s vision for a more prosperous and equitable future.
Speaking when he appeared on Diamond Tv last evening, Mwanto cited a number of significant accomplishments achieved during president Hichilema’s tenure.
“As young people, we are aware of the remarkable progress that has been made under President Hichilema’s leadership. The employment of over 30,000 teachers alone is a testament to his commitment to improving the quality of education in our country,” he said.
“Furthermore, the commissioning of the Chisamba solar plant demonstrates his dedication to sustainable energy solutions, which will ultimately benefit the entire nation.”
He further praised President Hichilema’s responsiveness to the concerns of students, highlighting specific instances of support provided by the president:
“President Hichilema has consistently listened to the concerns of students, particularly concerning issues affecting our learning environment. For instance, when we raised concerns about the dilapidated state of the student hostels, which had been neglected for over a decade, he took swift action to resume construction.”
Mwanto added that this was important given the significant accommodation crisis at UNZA, with only 3,200 bed spaces available for a student population of approximately 9,000.
The newly elected union president vowed to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability as guiding tenets of the union’s mandate.
He made it clear that the union is willing to challenge government policies and hold officials accountable if students or youth interests are not being served.
Mwanto also issued a call for greater inclusion and representation of young people in strategic decision making processes.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba September 4, 2025
