Another education milestone

THE Government’s decision to introduce travel and tourism as a stand-alone subject in secondary schools is yet another milestone in Zambia’s education system.
For years, our education system has been criticised for producing graduates who struggle to find jobs because their skills do not match the demands of the labour market.
Too often, students leave school with theoretical knowledge but little practical training.
Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima said at the Travel, Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit, “The introduction of travel and tourism as a subject in our school curriculum is a significant milestone as it demonstrates our commitment to aligning education provision to the country’s development agenda.”
We cannot agree more with the minister. More than just being about leisure, tourism is about jobs, entrepreneurship, and showcasing Zambia’s cultural and natural heritage to the world.
As President Hakainde Hichilema directed, curriculum reform must respond to industry needs.
Tourism is one of Zambia’s most promising sectors, yet it has lacked the skilled workforce to reach its full potential.
Introducing tourism clubs in schools will help Government spark interest early and help children see tourism as a career path and a business opportunity.
This is how education can inspire ambition and prepare young people for meaningful work.
The benefits from this reform will endure for years to come.
Tourism education will give learners practical skills in customer service, hospitality management, environmental awareness, and entrepreneurship.
These are skills that can be applied not only in tourism but across many industries. A student trained in tourism can work in hotels, manage events, start a small business, or even become a cultural ambassador.
The reform also strengthens Zambia’s identity. Tourism education will teach young people to value their country’s heritage – from the Victoria Falls to traditional ceremonies.
It will encourage them to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices. In this way, tourism education is not just about jobs but also about pride and culture.
Of course, challenges remain.
Introducing a subject is one thing; delivering it effectively is another. Teachers must be trained to handle the new content. Schools need resources, partnerships, and practical learning opportunities.
Without these, the subject risks becoming another underfunded idea. Minister Syakalima rightly emphasised the need to build teacher capacity, working with institutions such as the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS).
Industry partnerships will also be vital. Tourism is a practical field, and learners must be exposed to real-world experiences. Internships, field trips and mentorship programmes can turn classroom lessons into tangible skills.
Hotels, lodges, tour operators and cultural centres should be part of this journey, helping to shape the next generation of tourism professionals.
Critics may worry that focusing on tourism risks narrowing opportunities. But this reform is not about limiting choices; it is about expanding them. Tourism education provides transferable skills – communication, problem solving and innovation – that are valuable across many sectors.
Far from dependency, it fosters adaptability and resilience.
We commend the Government for these reforms. Under these reforms, education is going beyond being about passing exams. It is fast becoming about preparing for life.
If well implemented, this initiative can unlock opportunities for thousands of young Zambians while strengthening the tourism sector and positioning the country as a leader in innovative education reform.