Unicaf University proudly participated as a key sponsor and thought leader at the Higher Education Indaba 2025, held from 8–10 October at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone. Themed “Unlocking Zambia’s Potential Through New Investments in Quality Higher Education,” the inaugural Indaba brought together over 400 delegates, including policymakers, academics, regulators, financiers, and students.
Hosted by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the event served as a landmark platform for collaboration, dialogue, and innovation within the higher education sector. His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, represented by the Minister of Education, Honourable Douglas Syakalima, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting educational development through increased investment and stronger partnerships.
Unicaf University was recognised among the event’s main sponsors and featured prominently across all sessions. Unicaf University Zambia’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr Christine Mushibwe, delivered a powerful presentation titled “Future-Proofing Youth Through Online Education,” which explored the transformative role of digital learning in preparing Zambia’s youth for a technology-driven future.
Dr Mushibwe highlighted Unicaf University’s pioneering role in delivering quality online education across Africa and underscored the importance of investing in digital infrastructure to close the gap between urban and rural learners. She also addressed systemic challenges faced by online institutions, calling for stronger political will to embrace education technology nationwide.
Her presentation sparked robust discussions among delegates, with questions on Unicaf University’s innovative Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), funding model for the Unicaf Scholarship, and the University’s ongoing investments in infrastructure to support high-quality online learning.
Throughout the three-day event, discussions centred on innovative financing models, public-private partnerships, and the integration of AI-driven learning across higher education institutions. Speakers emphasised the need to align education with Zambia’s industrial and economic priorities while maintaining strong quality assurance and governance standards.
As the Indaba concluded, Unicaf University reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to shaping the future of higher education in Zambia and across Africa. By championing innovation, digital transformation, and strategic collaboration, the University continues to empower the next generation of leaders and professionals. Through its flexible online learning model and the Unicaf Scholarship, Unicaf University remains dedicated to expanding access to quality education, supporting national development, and ensuring that no learner is left behind in the digital era.
