Syakalima urges Professors to drive Innovation and uphold Academic Integrity

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Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has commended professors in Zambia’s education sector for their contributions to national development, while urging them to intensify efforts in applied research, innovation, and tangible societal impact.

Speaking during a Higher Education Authority breakfast meeting with full professors in Lusaka, Mr. Syakalima has emphasized the importance of shifting focus from basic research to applied research that produces real-world solutions.

"The new Higher Education Act, revised in 2021, mandates Deputy Vice Chancellors to focus on research and innovation. Professors must not only be recognized for their academic publications but also for tangible contributions that impact society," Mr. Syakalima stated.

The Minister has further warned universities against the rampant misuse of the prestigious title of "Professor," particularly among some private universities. 

He has expressed concern that the conferment of professorships to unqualified individuals risks undermining the credibility and integrity of Zambia’s higher education system.

"I am happy that public institutions like the University of Zambia (UNZA) and the Copperbelt University (CBU) rigorously follow promotion guidelines. However, I am disappointed that many private universities are wantonly awarding professorships without merit," Mr. Syakalima said.

He has stressed that some individuals had earned titles through publications in predatory journals or self-published works, warning that these platforms lack credibility.

"Professors must avoid predatory publications. The Higher Education Authority will enforce strict guidelines to protect the dignity of academic promotions," he added.

Mr. Syakalima has also called on professors to leave their "comfort zones" and contribute more directly to national development.

"Professors must use their knowledge to fight poverty, grow our economy, and offer practical solutions to the lives of ordinary citizens," he said. "They must help Zambia build its future by understanding and learning from its historical past."

Meanwhile, Higher Education Authority Board Chairperson Professor Levi Siaminwe has underscored the role of professors in mentoring upcoming academics to maintain educational standards.
"Higher education institutions rely on experts for peer reviews. We expect all professors to actively participate in maintaining quality assurance," Prof. Siaminwe said.

And Higher Education Authority Director-General, Professor Kazhila Chinsembu, has highlighted the Authority’s commitment to transforming higher education.

"We seek to reconfigure and reconstruct the system. However, this transformation can only succeed with the full support and scholarly input of our full professors," Prof. Chinsembu said.

The meeting concluded with a collective call for academic leaders to focus on innovation, mentorship, and maintaining high academic standards to safeguard the future of Zambia’s education sector.

Ends……………………..

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