The National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) has requested an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into the procurement of a non-functional E-census software from M-SAT.
NAQEZ says the 2023 Auditor General’s Report revealed significant irregularities, including a lack of adherence to the Public Procurement Act, as M-SAT was contracted and paid without formal processes.
“On April 11, 2024, the Ministry of Education instructed both private and public schools to deposit K800 each, totaling over K8.5 million from government schools,” said NAQEZ Executive Director, Aaron Chansa in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
Dr. Chansa said according to available information, M-SAT was contracted to provide comprehensive digitalized annual census software to facilitate the Ministry’s collection of educational statistics.
He also said M-SAT failed to provide necessary training to Ministry staff in seven provinces, leading to the software being abandoned by June 30, 2024, due to its non-functionality.
“Should the investigation confirm any wrongdoing as outlined in the Auditor General’s Report, NAQEZ demands that M-SAT refunds all the schools that contributed K800, and that Ministry staff responsible for authorizing and facilitating the irregular procurement be taken to book,” said Dr. Chansa.
Dr. Chansa said it is important to protect public funds, especially those allocated for education, from abuse.
“Public resources must serve the common good, not private interests,” said Dr. Chansa.
By Margaret Mwanza
