Commonwealth Students’ Association in Zambia: A Comprehensive Report of Activities

Ahead of the Global Student Convention, a delegation from the Commonwealth Students’ Association (CSA), led by President Francis Azubuike, arrived in Zambia. Working in close collaboration with the Zambia National Students Union (ZANASU), the delegation engaged student leaders from various campuses across Lusaka and beyond, deliberating on key issues affecting student representation, advocacy, and activism — and co-creating sustainable solutions to strengthen student leadership across the Commonwealth.

The CSA paid a courtesy call on the Acting Vice Chancellor of Copperbelt University, Prof. Bernard Mudenda Han’gombe, as well as the university’s student union leaders. The visit was held in solidarity with the university’s transformation agenda through the CBU Challenge — an initiative from the Vice Chancellor’s office aimed at advancing infrastructural and academic development. Discussions centred on how the CSA and CBU can work together to empower students and enhance development across the institution and Zambia.

The CSA met with student union leaders at Kwame Nkrumah University, where they received a firsthand report on key issues affecting the student community. Following the engagement, the CSA shared recommendations with both ZANASU and the university’s student leadership on strategic areas for collaboration to address the highlighted challenges. The CSA extended appreciation to the student union leaders for their warm reception and commitment to advancing student welfare.

The CSA team arrived at Mulungushi University — described as one of the leading universities to the north-east of Kabwe — where they were warmly welcomed by student union leaders. A meaningful roundtable discussion was held on key challenges facing students and how both parties can work together to enhance welfare and development.

The CSA, supported by ZANASU, engaged with the leadership of the Levy Mwanawasa Medical University Student Union in a conversation centred on inclusion. The team emphasised the need for policies that create equal academic and leadership opportunities for differently-abled medical students and prospects. They also highlighted the importance of collaborating with the medical accreditation body and university management to ensure that admissions reflect the university’s true capacity and the facilities available for student success.

At Mukuba University, the CSA met with the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Benson Simango, the University Registrar, Dr. Clifford Kwaleyela, and student union leaders led by the Prime Minister, Mr. Thomas Chisenga. Discussions focused on how the university can capitalise on opportunities through the Association of Commonwealth Universities — including scholarships, fellowships, and staff and student exchange programmes. The university was encouraged to take steps toward joining the Association to fully access these benefits. The student union leaders were also commended for their support and commitment to the upcoming Global Student Convention.

The CSA team visited the Office of the District Education Board Secretary in Kitwe to share the association’s mission in the district — connecting with students and education stakeholders, identifying key challenges, and working together towards lasting solutions.

The CSA paid a courtesy call on the Director of Universities, Mr. Brian Makufele, to discuss the challenges gathered during their university visits and to explore pathways for meaningful and actionable solutions. The CSA expressed gratitude for the audience and the warm reception extended to the delegation.

As part of a nationwide school outreach, the CSA visited Lulamba Combined School in the Kitwe District, where representatives engaged with students and teachers to assess existing challenges and identify key areas for development.

Underscoring its commitment to inclusion, the CSA team visited the Kitwe Teaching Hospital Special Needs School, where they interacted with students and teachers, heard their experiences firsthand, and reaffirmed the association’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and empowering learning environment for all.

The CSA visited Lusaka Girls Secondary School, where they engaged students and staff on the CSA’s work in girl-child empowerment, leadership, and gender mainstreaming. The visit was described as inspiring, with the energy, brilliance, and leadership demonstrated by the students drawing particular commendation.

At Kitwe Boys Secondary School, the CSA held conversations with students and staff on shaping responsible leadership and creating opportunities for young men to contribute meaningfully to society. The level of engagement and critical thinking demonstrated was noted as exceptional.

Across universities, secondary schools, special needs institutions, and government offices, the CSA’s engagements in Zambia reflected a broad and deliberate commitment to student advocacy, inclusive education, gender empowerment, and institutional collaboration. By working hand-in-hand with ZANASU, university administrations, and government officials, the delegation laid the groundwork for stronger student representation and meaningful Commonwealth-wide cooperation — all in the lead-up to the Global Student Convention.