By NCHIMUNYA MIYOBA
The Copperbelt University (CBU) staff have kickstarted the CBU Challenge with a remarkable contribution of over K124,000 during the prelaunch event aimed at transforming the university’s infrastructure.
Speaking during the prelaunch held at the Multipurpose Hall within the university grounds, CBU Vice Chancellor Professor Imasiku Nyambe said there is a critical need for a facelift at the institution, stating that the university seeks to raise K30 million as an initial goal to begin addressing the university’s aging infrastructure.
Professor Nyambe said, despite CBU’s status as the second-largest university in Zambia, it has seen little expansion in its facilities since its days as the Zambia Institute of Technology (ZIT). “The time for change is now. CBU is not located in a rural area; therefore, we need to modernize the university. This can only be achieved if we take action.”
He further urged staff, alumni, philanthropists, and well-wishers to rally behind the cause, stressing that a conducive learning environment is vital for students to thrive academically.
Professor Nyambe emphasized that faculty support is crucial for the success of the initiative. “Change can only be embraced if staff members are on board and support this noble cause.”
Vice Chairperson of the CBU Challenge, Professor Thomas Taylor, echoed Professor Nyambe’s sentiments, stating that both infrastructure and recreational facilities are essential to student development.
Professor Taylor stressed the importance of changing the mindset of the university community as they embark on the challenge, adding that the success of the challenge is dependent on all members of staff working together.
“We must support the CBU Challenge to develop our institution. We allowed the situation to deteriorate to this point, and now we must own this challenge and embrace the change,” Professor Taylor stated.
CBU Council Chairperson Felicity Chisanga urged the university community to embrace and own the challenge, stressing that the council would always support ideas that bring development to both students and staff.
The CBU Challenge will officially launch on October 17, 2024, with the university estimating a total cost of K305 million to complete the full infrastructure overhaul.
His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, patron of the CBU Challenge, is expected to attend the launch.
The CBU Challenge’s main objectives include raising funds to upgrade laboratory equipment, renovate critical campus infrastructure, and establish a sustainable endowment fund.
