Lusaka, Zambia (4th March 2026) Minister of Education, Douglas Syakalima, says Government intends to transform Levy Mwanawasa Medical University (LMMU) into a hub of medical training that will serve not only Zambia, but the region and beyond. Speaking this morning during the launch of the University’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan under the theme “LMMU Rising,” Mr. Syakalima said the unveiling of the Plan represents a deliberate and collective step forward in Zambia’s journey toward building a robust and resilient health workforce capable of meeting national, regional, and global health needs.
He noted that as Government continues to transform education into a knowledge-based society, there must be recognition of the accelerating role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of learning and healthcare delivery.
Mr. Syakalima emphasized that Government policies remain anchored in quality education, access and equity, teacher development, digital transformation, as well as strong governance and accountability.
“The Strategic Plan demonstrates our shared commitment to raising education and training standards. It underscores that quality goes beyond attendance by ensuring that graduates are safe, professional, competent, and able to serve with integrity. It further envisions the creation of a credible community of scholars and the strengthening of LMMU’s academic staff to excel in teaching, research, and publication,” he said.
And LMMU Council Chairperson, Mr. Zidah Mwiinde, described the launch of the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan as a major milestone in the University’s journey.
He stated that since its establishment in 2018, the University has now been operational for seven years. While notable progress has been made, he acknowledged that LMMU has not yet reached its full potential.
“This Strategic Plan is more than just a document; it is a shared vision of how LMMU will rise. ‘LMMU Rising’ is not merely a theme—it is a declaration of intent. It speaks to our aspiration to become the leading purpose-built medical university in Zambia, renowned for high academic standards, impactful research, and exceptional student experiences,” said Mr. Mwiinde.
He added that the success of the Strategic Plan requires collective ownership and called on every member of staff, student, stakeholder, and indeed every Zambian who values the advancement of healthcare to embrace the Plan and actively contribute to its implementation.
“Only through unity of purpose will LMMU transform into the institution we envision,” he said.
Meanwhile, LMMU Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sekelani Banda, said the University boasts some of the best infrastructure in the country and is currently offering 49 programmes, all dedicated to health training.
Prof. Banda noted that LMMU is committed to producing motivated, lifelong learners, mindful of advancements in ICTs and the importance of strong ethics, positive attitudes, and good character.
“Our students will be the living testimony of what this Strategic Plan seeks to achieve,” he said.
He added that the institution’s core values define its identity, and that LMMU is strengthening capacity by recruiting qualified staff and enhancing research output in order to build a credible and vibrant scholarly community.
Prof. Banda further stated that the University recognizes the critical role Artificial Intelligence and ICTs will play in the future of learning, which is why it is actively implementing ICT-driven programmes and systems.
He also disclosed that measures have been taken to ensure financial stability at the institution, including cutting unnecessary expenditure and improving resource management.
Additionally, he said LMMU is prioritizing the construction of decent student accommodation and sports infrastructure to enrich the overall student experience and position the University as a premier institution of higher learning.
Prof. Banda emphasized that the University is seeking strategic partnerships that will provide both financial support and technical expertise, as these partnerships form part of the key pillars LMMU intends to achieve over the next five years.
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Levy Mwanawasa Medical University