Delays in disbursing bursaries hits Nortec operations

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 09:25:45 +0000

By VIOLET TEMBO

NORTHERN Technical College principal Victor Mulenga has complained that delays in the disbursement of bursaries is negatively affecting the college cash flow.

Speaking when Higher Education minister Professor Nkandu Luo paid a visit at his office, Mr. Mulenga said the development had also negatively affected progress on  a number of projects at the college.

Mr. Mulenga said that service charges by utility companies such as Zesco and Kafubu Water and Sewerage Company  were very high.

He appealed to the minister to engage the concerned ministries to consider placing  a social rate for institutions such as Nortec.

‘‘I want to take advantage of your visit and bring to your attention that delays in the disbursement of bursaries are negatively affecting the cash flow at the college.

‘‘Consequently this has resulted in the institution not making progress on various projects and activities which are currently underway.

‘‘As you are aware, we are facing challenges with current infrastructure. The college needs to expand to meet increased student population. The college is also in need of a lecture theatre to accommodate common classes,” Mr. Mulenga said.

He said the college was also pursuing a piece of land which a private firm was claiming ownership.

The college also lacked training equipment in workshops while  the general state of machinery was obsolete.

He said that the institution also faced challenges in finding placement for final year students to undertake industrial attachment. In reply, Prof Luo said the procurement process in Zambia was a joke and a recipe for serious corruption.

The minister said that she hated the procurement system  in Zambia, emphasizing that  it was very discouraging.

Prof Luo said it was unfortunate that tertiary institutions in Zambia did not seem to do the right thing and education curriculum did not meet the international standards.

She urged tertiary institutions to be self-sustaining and not depend on Government all the time.