IN ORDER to boost parliamentary excellence and strengthen democratic governance, the Zambia National Assembly has unveiled the Institute for Parliamentary Studies and Training.
This development will perhaps give some members of parliament a more focused approach in handling mattered in the August House rather than just saying yah yah yah yah! so that they can effectively represent their constituencies better.
Speaking at the official launch yesterday, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti said the institute will provide professional learning for members of parliament.
“This institute will provide structured, continuous, and professional learning for MPs and staff,” Mutti said.
She also said that the launch is a significant milestone in Zambia’s democratic journey.
“I am confident the Institute will serve not only the current Parliament, but future Parliaments for generations to come. I have no doubt the Institute will grow into a centre of excellence, not only for Zambia, but for the region.” said Mutti.
Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima, represented by assistant director planning and information, pledged the ministry’s support.
“Your work today lays a foundation for generations to come. May it strengthen Parliament, deepen democracy and serve the nation with integrity,” Syakalima said.
The initiative has also drawn praise from regional partners. SADC Parliamentary Forum secretary general Boemo Sekgoma has commended Parliament’s leadership for the forward-looking move.
“This institute will evolve into a vibrant centre of knowledge and excellence for the entire region,” Sekgoma said.
Civil society have also welcomed the development.
“We will support MPs to represent citizens better and advocate for sustainable learner well-being,” Healthy Learners’ Head of Policy and Government Engagement Kuleta Kapati said.
Parliamentarians themselves have also expressed confidence in the institute’s impact.
Speaking about the misconceptions surrounding the duties of parliamentarians, Mwembeshi MP Machila Jamba said many times parliamentarians promise roads and hospitals, but that’s not their responsibility.
“This institute will help MPs understand their true role,” said Jamba.
He also highlight the significance of the newly established institute, stressing that it would serve as a compass for MPs in fulfilling their actual responsibilities.
“Like Kenya and Ghana, Zambia now joins the few African countries with such an institute, it will bring real progress,” said Jamba.
By Daniel Banda
Kalemba March 17, 2026
