Eden University leads continent with specialized fire engineering program

Eden University is the only university in Zambia offering the Bachelor of Science in Fire Engineering and Rescue Management, and the only institution in Africa with this program.

The University, in partnership with Africa Fire Mission, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing fire safety education and community resilience.

Speaking at the opening of a firefighter training programme jointly organized by Africa Fire Mission, Eden University, and other partners, Vice Chancellor Dr. Alvert N’gandu has underscored the critical role of emergency services and first responders in safeguarding communities, property, and lives.

Dr. N’gandu said the partnership with Africa Fire Mission reflects the university’s dedication to community service, capacity building, and practical education that makes a real difference in society.

“Since 2019, our collaboration with Africa Fire Mission has been a cornerstone in advancing fire safety knowledge and empowering firefighters across Zambia,” he said.

He said the training equips responders with the latest skills, knowledge, and confidence to manage emergencies effectively, and that participants drawn from diverse industries underscore the cross-sector importance of firefighting in national safety.

Dr. N’gandu said the training is more than a learning exercise, it strengthens professional networks, promotes knowledge sharing, and builds community resilience.

“As academia, government, and civil society work together, we can create a safer and more prosperous Zambia,” he said.

And speaking at the same event, Acting Dean of the School of Natural Sciences at Eden University, Jules Mangozi, encouraged participants to consider enrolling in Eden University’s Bachelor of Science in Fire Engineering and Rescue Management during the upcoming December intake.

He said Eden University runs two annual intakes, in May and December, and that application forms for the December intake are now available.

“We welcome those interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science with Eden University to engage with us after the official opening,” he said.

And Africa Fire Mission Executive Director Nancy Moore has commended Zambia’s steady progress in strengthening its firefighting capacity, highlighting the expansion of fire services across public and private sectors since the organization first engaged in the country.

Ms. Moore has recalled that Africa Fire Mission began working in Zambia in 2015, with the last major engagement in 2019, and praised Zambia’s growing collaboration within the continental firefighting community.

“Our mission has grown significantly, and we’re now serving across Africa in countries such as Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, and Zambia through in-person and online training,” she said.

Paying tribute to her international volunteer team from the United States, Canada, and Kenya, Ms. Moore emphasized the core principles of training, empowerment, support, and encouragement.

She has challenged participants to share knowledge, empower colleagues, support communities, and advocate for safer environments.

“If you keep the knowledge to yourself, we have not done our jobs,” she said, urging firefighters to promote community risk reduction, citing preventable accidents such as drownings and other emergencies. “Let’s train, empower, support, and encourage  to make the Zambian Fire Service even better than it is today,” she said.

Meanwhile President of the Fire Fighters Association of Zambia, Billings Chanda, has praised Africa Fire Mission for providing technical, fire management, and leadership training that enhances firefighters’ capacity to respond to emergencies and promote fire safety.

Mr. Chanda has expressed gratitude to the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development for their support, Eden University for hosting the training, and the Zambia Airports Corporation Limited for contributing to the development of fire personnel.

He has also acknowledged the active participation of firefighters from defence and security sectors, and private and public fire brigades, noting the collective effort reflects a shared commitment to advancing the profession and improving safety outcomes in Zambia.

“This training will translate into improved fire safety and emergency response in our communities. We look forward to continued partnerships and capacity-building initiatives,” he said.

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