The University of Zambia (UNZA) through the School of Education in collaboration with Makerere University, School of Public Health Resilient Africa Network (RAN) has officially launched the Africa Regional Education System Resilience Observatory (ARESRO) Project in Zambia. This significant initiative aims to bolster the resilience of education systems across Sub-Saharan Africa, aligning perfectly with UNZA's vision to be a globally renowned institution driven by knowledge, research, innovation, and responsiveness to societal needs.
The speaking at the official launch, the guest of honour, UNZA Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Trywell Kalusopa in a speech read on his behalf by the Dean, School of Education, Dr. Liberty Mweemba said UNZA gives their full support and blessing for the ARESRO Project, acknowledging its potential to contribute significantly to the institution's repositioning as a world-class entity excelling in teaching, research, community service, and innovation.
“Through such innovations as provided by the ARESRO Project, the University finds tangible ways of repositioning itself into a world-class institution driven by excellence in teaching, research, community service, and innovation “He said.
UNZA Deputy Chancellor added that the University management is committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters research, collaboration, and innovation, and pledged unwavering support that is instrumental in ensuring that initiatives such as the ARESRO project are not only possible but also thrive within our institution.
Prof. Kalusopa thanked the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health for their ongoing partnership and support. “Their active involvement is deemed critical for the successful implementation of the ARESRO Project, given the inherent connection between education and health in building robust and resilient systems,” he said.
And the Project Principal Investigator, Prof. Beatrice Matafwali was happy that project has finally been launched and expressed her gratitude to the University management and the two ministries for their support.
Speaking at the same event Mr. Mangimbe Tembo, Global Partnership for Education and Innovation Exchange (GPE KIX) thanked the Zambian government for its support. He noted that the project's timing was ideal and urged stakeholders to support both the project and the university as they conduct research-based policy work. The representative emphasized the importance of using this research to find solutions for daily life, which can help manage future pandemics like COVID-19.
Meanwhile, Prof Julius Ssentongo from Makerere University was excited at the launch of the Project in Zambia and expressed gratitude to the government and UNZA management for their continued support. He encouraged the Project team to work hard and ensure the completion of the outlined key activities on time for the benefit of the educations systems in Zambia, and Africa as a whole.
The ARESRO Project, funded by the Global Partnership for Education and Innovation Exchange (GPE KIX) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is an initiative focused on strengthening the resilience of education systems across Sub-Saharan Africa through research, collaboration, and innovation. The Project was lunched in Zambia on 29th July 2025 at the Great East Road campus of the University of Zambia.