Ankara, Saturday 6th July, 2024

 

Zambia Hands Over Kabulonga Trust School to Türkiye Maarif Foundation

The Zambia Ministry of Education signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Türkiye Maarif Foundation, a Turkish state-led institution that provides high-quality education and promotes Turkish culture.

The MoU formalizes the handover of Kabulonga Trust School, formerly known as Horizon Nursery, Primary, and Secondary School, to the Turkish Maarif Foundation. The school was previously operated by the Fethullah Gulen Movement (FETO).

The MoU was signed by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, on behalf of Zambia, and Prof. Dr. Birol Akgün on behalf of Türkiye.

The ceremony was witnessed by Zambia’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Lt. Gen. Dr. William Maipambe Sikazwe, and senior government officials from both Zambia and Türkiye.

 

Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara, Hon. Haimbe stated that following positive discussions on enhancing educational cooperation between the two countries, the Zambian government acknowledges the importance the Turkish government places on the complete takeover of schools formerly run by Fethullah Gulen Movement (FETO).

He reiterated Zambia’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.

Hon. Haimbe emphasized that the MoU marks a significant step in revitalizing and deepening ties in the area of education between Zambia and Türkiye.

In view of the fruitful engagements made thus far between the two countries, the Minister called for a review of all MoU between Zambia and Türkiye.

He outlined that the review of the MoU aims to assess progress in various areas of cooperation and work towards increasing the annual trade volume, which currently stands at US$50 million, compared to Türkiye’s global trade volume of over US$600 billion.

Meanwhile, Hon. Haimbe highlighted Zambia’s efforts to create an attractive investment climate for private sector participation in renewable energy, agriculture, critical minerals extraction, and value addition, among other sectors.

Speaking at the same event, President of the Türkiye Maarif Foundation, Prof. Dr. Birol Akgün, expressed his honor at formalizing the partnership with the Zambia Ministry of Education.

 

Dr. Akgün highlighted the Foundation’s belief in the transformative power of education to change lives and build stronger communities. He noted that the Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared vision and commitment to fostering educational excellence.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to bring innovative educational practices and resources to students and teachers in Zambia, enhancing their learning experiences and outcomes,” Dr. Akgün stated.

He further mentioned that the Maarif Foundation provides modern education in 52 countries globally, with Zambia set to become the 53rd.

The Foundation is actively present in Africa, educating over 200,000 students worldwide through various activities.

Dr. Akgün also expressed appreciation to the Zambian government for their dedication and efforts in making this partnership possible. He is confident that this collaboration will yield positive and lasting impacts.

 

Issued by:

Pamela Nkeete – Ng’andu

FIRST SECRETARY- PRESS