Government through the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board has awarded student loans to 1,457 first-year students at Mulungushi University for the 2024/2025 academic year, a move that is expected to fill financial gaps and provide essential funds to cover educational expenses.
In a statement released by the HELSB, the board selected applicants by regional balancing criteria to promote equitable access to education. This approach has ensured equitable distribution across provinces, with applicants from all regions considered for the award of student loans.
Of the awarded students, 783 are male and 674 are female, representing 54% and 46%, respectively. Additionally, 1,167 students are enrolled in science-based programs, while 290 are in arts-based programs, representing 80% and 20%, respectively.
HELSB received 4,801 applications for sponsorship at Mulungushi University. Out of these, 4,695 applicants were eligible for the award, while 106 were ineligible, representing 98% and 2%, respectively. Ultimately, 1,457 students were awarded loans for the academic year.
A total of three applications were received from students living with disabilities (one male and two females), representing 0.2% of the total applications. All three applicants were awarded loans.
The ineligible applicants were disqualified due to reasons such as completing Grade 12 before 2020, failing to attach the required documents to their applications, and submitting incorrect admission letters.
Of the 4,801 applicants, 2,419 are from rural districts and 2,382 are from urban districts, representing 50% from each area.
President Hakainde Hichilema recently pledged to continue increasing bursaries to more students and universities.
The Policy is aimed at supporting wealth and job creation among the youth and ensure their contributions to national governance and development is meaningful and impactful.