Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to tourism education and workforce development introducing tourism as a school subject to address hospitality skills gap, an initiative launched with the aim on equipping learners with practical industry skills and promoting entrepreneurship to support tourism growth.
A high - level gathering as The Fourth Travel, Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit, held at the Mulungushi International Conference in Lusaka, brought together Ministers of Education, Tourism, Labour, and Commerce alongside UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Elcia Grandcourt, with discussions centred on aligning the national education system with industry demands.
The participation of four ministries at the summit undoubtedly reflects a coordinated, cross - government approach to tourism development, with skills development and inclusive economic growth identified as central pillar of Zambia’s long - term tourism strategy.
Tourism was officially linked to the 2023 Edcucation Curriculum Framework, offering a structured pathway for students, anf the new initiative aims to introduce tourism education early with plans to establish Tourism Education Clubs in both primary and secondary schools.
The curriculum aims to move beyond theoretical knowledge, offering practical skills to match industry demands, including collaboration with the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) to create a relevant workforce ready to address hospitality skills gap.
This initiative aims to prepare students for employment and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector, supporting the 8th National Development Plan (8NDP) which highlights tourism as a key economic driver for the country.
In addition the Government is focusing on training teachers to effectively deliver the new subject, supported by industry partnerships for internships and mentorships.
Education Minister Douglas Syakjalima highlighted curriculum under the 2023 framework, including the introduction of Travel and Tourism as a standalone school subject, aimed at equipping learners with practical, industry - relevant skills while promoting Zambia’s cultural heritage.
Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba directed the establishment of tourism education clubs in schools and called for strengthened teacher training to support effective delivery, noting that the sector currently supports over 159.000 jobs across accommodation, transport, and related services.
The Minister also highlighted progress on the Mukumi International Academy for Tourism and Hospitality Studies, a flagship project developed in partnership with UN Tourism, which is expected to position the country as a regional hub for tourism education and professional training.
UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Elcia Grandcourt commended Zambia’s leadership in prioritising tourism education, emphasising that strengthening the link between education system and industry needs is essential to building a resilient, competitive tourism sector across Africa.
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