By Samuel Mbewe
Lusaka, 2024 — Minister of Education Permanent Secretary, Joe Kamoko, has reiterated the vital importance of research and innovation in driving the success and progress of any nation.
Speaking at the 2024 International Multidisciplinary Conference in Lusaka, Kamoko emphasized that these two elements are fundamental to a country’s advancement.
During his address, Mr. Kamoko highlighted the critical role universities, research centers, and other educational institutions play in fostering impactful research that addresses both local and global challenges. He explained that academic institutions are in a unique position to contribute to national development and to find solutions that directly improve society.
“The importance of research in higher education cannot be overstated. Universities have the capacity to innovate, educate, and research solutions that can directly influence policy, business, and community outcomes,” said Kamoko. He further stressed that through a focus on research, universities can significantly contribute to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Kamoko’s remarks come at a time when there is growing recognition of the need for higher education institutions to go beyond traditional teaching methods and lead efforts in research and development.
In a related address, Boemo Sekgoma, Secretary General of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Parliamentary Forum, called for a renewed focus on empowering and funding research done on the African continent. She stressed the importance of placing trust in African research and ensuring that researchers are given the proper incentives and support to thrive.
Ms. Sekgoma highlighted that Africa’s future relies on its ability to generate homegrown solutions to its problems, and research plays a pivotal role in this process. She urged African governments and private sectors to invest more in research initiatives to drive sustainable growth in the region.
Professor Sarah Mbetwa, Vice Chancellor of Administration at the Information and Communications University, also spoke at the conference, emphasizing that innovation and research are vital tools for tackling pressing challenges such as unemployment. According to Mbetwa, these fields can provide the groundwork for creating new industries, job opportunities, and entrepreneurial ventures that will uplift communities.
Professor Mbetwa observed that the application of research-driven innovation can help address the unemployment crisis and foster economic resilience across Africa.
“The future of work is directly linked to how we embrace innovation and research. Universities must be at the forefront of developing solutions that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application,” she said.
The conference, which brought together experts and thought leaders from various disciplines, served as a platform for discussing how research, innovation, and collaboration can be harnessed to create sustainable solutions for the challenges faced by African nations.
