Zambia Enacts Landmark Law for Free Education Rights

Zambia has passed a significant free education law, which makes free education a legal right and ensures that no learner is denied a place in public schools due to inability to pay fees. President Hakainde Hichilema described this move as part of his flagship commitment during the 2021 electoral campaign.

The implementation of this policy, which abolishes tuition fees for early childhood and secondary education, has led to a surge in enrollment and the recruitment of 41,000 teachers. Additionally, the government has expanded school feeding programs.

However, until now, the initiative has remained an administrative measure rather than a legal entitlement, leaving gaps in enforcement and long-term sustainability. The new legislation aims to provide learners and families with a clear basis for redress against schools that attempt to charge illegal fees.

It also seeks to strengthen accountability across the education system, ensuring that future administrations cannot reverse the policy without parliamentary approval.