Zambia’s Free Education Policy Leads to Overcrowded Classrooms
The free primary and secondary education policy implemented in Zambia since 2021 has led to overcrowded classrooms. Classes that started with 40 students in 2019 now have more than 100 students. This makes one-on-one communication impossible and prevents teachers from reviewing topics.
It is a fact that 90% of primary school classes across Zambia are struggling with basic skills such as reading and comprehension. Education policymakers are now focusing on improving the quality of education, recruiting qualified teachers, and improving physical infrastructure.
The government is taking decisive action to overcome the challenges of free education. The education minister has made it clear that he would much rather see children in crowded classrooms than on the streets.
The government will build more than 170 new schools and hire 55,000 new teachers by the end of 2026. However, the housing shortage in rural areas forces some teachers to live in grass-covered houses. Some families are returning to private schools because they are concerned about the quality of education for their children.
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