From UNZA students
Last year, several students applied for HELSB loans but were unsuccessful, even after submitting appeals. We were later encouraged by the University of Zambia to proceed with our studies, with the expectation that a third list of beneficiaries would be released.
We therefore continued attending classes despite not having financial support. During the first semester, some students could not access Moodle or complete their assessments due to unpaid fees. Others were unable to write their examinations because they had not paid the required registration fees, while some who managed to write their examinations are now unable to access their results because of outstanding tuition fees.
In August, we sought presidential intervention through State House, and a directive was reportedly issued to the current Member of Parliament, Jemima Mwaba, to assist us. However, despite several attempts to resolve the matter through HELSB, no meaningful solution has been reached.
Recently, our student president informed us that HELSB had exhausted all complaints for 2026 and that new complaints would only be considered in 2027.
This leaves many students in a difficult position, with their academic progress at risk because of financial challenges beyond their control. We are therefore appealing for urgent intervention and a possible solution that will allow affected students to continue with their education without losing an academic year.
Kalemba November 12, 2026
