THE National Union and of Public and Private Educators of Zambia (NUPPEZ) is calling for government to ensure full integration of newly recruited teachers into the payroll system and provision of proper compensation that will lead to improved motivation and retention rates.
NUPPEZ called for government to swiftly implement the outstanding upgrades for teachers who acquired higher qualifications by 2015, as mandated in Circular No. B25 of 2015.
Speaking when he addressed journalists yesterday, NUPPEZ executive president Victor Muyumba highlighted the establishment of a clear national framework for processing upgrades, with set timelines for efficient and effective processing.
Muyumba underlined the creation of an advanced digital system to track upgrade applications, ensuring accountability and transparency.
He also implored government to increase its focus on developing new schools, as an urgent step towards expanding educational opportunities for the nation’s youth.
Muyumba noted that this move is critical in proving more children with access to education, promoting socio-economic development and ultimately creating a more prosperous future for the country.
Meanwhile, Muyumba stressed the critical issue of newly established schools being denied formal establishment status, which has had severe implications for both educators and students alike.
According to Muyumba, this lack of proper establishment has resulted in teachers working in these schools not receiving appropriate remuneration, leading to demotivation and jeopardising overall quality of education delivery.
“Government must prioritise addressing this concern, because the current funding levels allocated to the Ministry are inadequate to support the opening of new positions and fair compensation for teachers serving in these schools,” he observed.
Muyumba also challenged government to allocate a greater share of the national budget to education in the upcoming fiscal year.
“This will ensure that all newly constructed and upgraded schools are formally established, fully staffed with qualified educators, and receive the necessary funding to deliver a high-quality education for all pupils,” added Muyumba.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba August 24, 2025
