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ZAMREN Strengthens Zambia’s Global Presence at TNC25Brighton, United Kingdom

ZAMREN has once again placed Zambia on the global stage by successfully participating in TNC25 (TERENA Networking Conference), the world’s largest and most prestigious research and education networking event. The conference was held from 9th to 13th June 2025 in Brighton, United Kingdom under the theme: Brighter Together.Led by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Stein Mkandawire, the ZAMREN delegation joined an international community of more than 800 delegates from 72 countries, taking part in high-level discussions that are shaping the future of digital infrastructure for research and education.Participation at TNC25 reflected more than visibility, it demonstrated Zambia’s active role in the global conversation around digital innovation, connectivity, and sustainability in education. The conference provided a unique platform for ZAMREN to share Zambia’s experiences and progress in developing a digital ecosystem that enables students to thrive, empowers researchers to innovate, and fosters collaboration among academic and research institutions locally, regionally, and internationally.Throughout the week, ZAMREN delegates engaged with global experts on a range of topics, including next-generation network technologies, digital transformation, cybersecurity, open science, and international collaboration among other key subjects. The conference also served as an opportunity to establish new partnerships and strengthen existing relationships within the international NREN (National Research and Education Network) community.ZAMREN’s participation also demonstrated the important role that African NRENs can play in shaping the future of global digital research networks, contributing unique perspectives and driving inclusive growth within the digital knowledge economy.About TNC25Organized annually by the GÉANT community, TNC is the world’s leading conference for research and education networking. It brings together decision-makers, technical experts, network managers, academic researchers, and thought leaders from across the globe to explore the latest trends, technologies, and challenges shaping the digital future of research and education.

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June 20, 2025 No Comments
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ZAMREN Reaffirms Support for Environmental Research on World Environment Day

Lusaka, 5 June 2025 – As the world comes together to commemorate World Environment Day, ZAMREN joins the global call for urgent action to protect our planet. With the 2025 theme focused on “Ending Plastic Pollution – A Call to Action,” this day serves as a powerful reminder of the need for collaborative efforts in addressing environmental challenges. At ZAMREN, our mission extends beyond connectivity. We recognize that the research and education institutions we serve are at the heart of developing the knowledge and innovations needed to confront climate change, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable development. In a statement marking this important day, ZAMREN Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Stein Mkandawire, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting environmental research: “At ZAMREN, we are proud to power the research and innovation that drives environmental solutions. This World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to enabling institutions across Zambia with the digital tools they need to tackle climate change, pollution, and other pressing environmental challenges.” ZAMREN’s digital infrastructure plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to global research networks, cloud computing resources, and collaborative platforms that are essential for researchers addressing issues like deforestation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. As a practical example of ZAMREN’s own environmental consciousness, the organization continues to preserve and maintain the lush green surroundings of ZAMREN House, a reflection of our respect for nature and our responsibility to promote sustainable workplace environments. Through collective action and digital empowerment, we believe that the research and education community in Zambia can drive meaningful change for the environment.

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June 5, 2025 No Comments
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ZAMREN Hosts UbuntuNet Alliance NREN CEOs’ Meeting – A Milestone for Regional Collaboration

Lusaka, 8th May 2025 — The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) proudly hosted the UbuntuNet Alliance NREN CEOs’ Meetingat ZAMREN House in Lusaka, bringing together top leaders of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) from across Eastern and Southern Africa. The meeting served as a platform for strategic engagement, knowledge-sharing, and celebration of key achievements in advancing research and education networking on the continent. In his official opening remarks, ZAMREN Board Chairperson, Professor Mundia Muya, warmly welcomed delegates, describing the gathering as “a powerful reminder of what we as NRENs are capable of achieving when we collaborate, innovate, and lead with purpose.” Prof. Muya shared several important milestones ZAMREN has reached over the past year, highlighting the organisation’s continued commitment to expanding digital access and educational innovation across Zambia. Among the achievements shared were: “These are not just technological expansions,” Prof. Muya emphasized. “They are strategic interventions that position ZAMREN as a national driver of digital inclusion, educational innovation, and institutional resilience.” He also underscored ZAMREN’s alignment with national priorities, citing a recent meeting with the Minister of Education, who praised the organisation’s work and called on universities and colleges to use the infrastructure for applied research and innovation. “It is not enough to provide connectivity; we must cultivate a culture of solution-driven research,” Prof. Muya stressed. In his remarks, Professor Madara Ogot, Chief Executive Officer of the UbuntuNet Alliance, commended ZAMREN for its leadership and hospitality, describing the organisation as a model for other NRENs in the region. “We are happy to be hosted by ZAMREN, and even more inspired by the fact that it is the only NREN in the world with its own purpose-built headquarters,” Prof. Ogot said.“This is a significant achievement that demonstrates ZAMREN’s long-term commitment to institutional growth and sustainability.” He further acknowledged ZAMREN’s progress in expanding broadband connectivity, digital services, and regional collaboration, noting that such milestones are essential in helping Africa’s research and education institutions thrive in a global digital economy. As part of the closing highlights, Prof. Muya announced the upcoming ZAMREN Week and Annual General Meeting, to be held in September under the theme: “Building a Culture of Research and Innovation for National Development.” The event will bring together local and international stakeholders to foster dialogue and partnerships that drive Zambia’s knowledge economy forward.

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May 14, 2025 No Comments
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Prof. Mundia Muya Elected to UbuntuNet Alliance Board of Trustees

Lusaka, 12th May 2025 – The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) is proud to share the exciting news of the election of its Board Chairperson, Professor Mundia Muya, to the Board of Trustees of the UbuntuNet Alliance. The election was held during the Alliance’s Annual General Meeting hosted at ZAMREN House in Lusaka, drawing delegates from 16 member countries across Eastern and Southern Africa.Professor Muya, who also serves as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Zambia, is a distinguished civil engineer with a career spanning over 30 years. His election is not only a personal achievement but a proud moment for Zambia, representing a significant step forward in the country’s leadership role in advancing digital transformation for education and research on the continent.The UbuntuNet Alliance Board of Trustees plays a critical role in guiding the strategic direction, policy framework, and sustainability of research and education networks (NRENs) in the region. Prof. Muya’s inclusion on the Board signals confidence in Zambia’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to this mission.“Prof. Muya is not only an engineering giant but also a visionary leader whose passion for collaboration and academic excellence resonates across the region,” said ZAMREN Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Stein Mkandawire. “His presence on the UbuntuNet Alliance Board brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply rooted commitment to advancing digital connectivity for research and education in Africa. We are proud to see Zambia represented by such a distinguished figure.”Prof. Muya holds a PhD in Construction Management and an MSc in Construction from Loughborough University (UK), as well as a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Zambia. He is widely respected for his work in academia, engineering governance, and infrastructure development across Zambia and the region.In his new role, Prof. Muya will support the Alliance in delivering affordable broadband, developing capacity, and enhancing collaboration among research and education institutions across member countries.This appointment marks a major milestone for Zambia’s growing footprint in regional education and research innovation. ZAMREN celebrates this achievement and looks forward to the transformative impact Prof. Muya will make in his new role.

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May 14, 2025 No Comments
Education
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Minister of Education Commends ZAMREN for Championing Innovation and Digital Expansion in the Education Sector

Lusaka, 16th April 2025 – The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) today paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Education, Douglas Syakalima, to brief him on the institution’s milestones and strategic direction as it continues to drive digital transformation in Zambia’s education and research landscape. Leading the delegation was ZAMREN CEO Mr. Stein Mkandawire, who shared the organization’s key achievements from the past year. He announced that ZAMREN has now connected all Colleges of Education across the country to its high-speed broadband network. Two secondary schools, Faith Baptist Secondary School in Silverest area of Chongwe District and Serenje Boys STEM Secondary School in Serenje have also been brought onboard the ZAMREN network, bringing the total number of connected institutions to over 167. “ZAMREN’s mission is to empower the academic and research community through world-class digital infrastructure and services,” said Mr. Mkandawire. “We are proud to support government efforts by ensuring no institution is left behind, from the far north in Mbala to urban centers like Lusaka and beyond we continue to connect institutions.” He also revealed that ZAMREN is preparing to roll out the College Student Information System (COSIS), a comprehensive platform that will digitize student services by integrating online application processes and payment gateway enabling students to use their visa cards, make bank transfers and conduct mobile money transactions. Additionally, ZAMREN has extended eduroam which is a secure, global Wi-Fi service to public spaces such as Intercity Bus Terminus, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) and East Park Mall in Lusaka, enabling students and researchers to stay connected wherever they are. ZAMREN is yet to roll out this service to 9 shopping malls situated in the remaining 9 provincial headquarters across Zambia. Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Douglas Syakalima commended ZAMREN for its continued innovation and responsiveness to the needs of the education sector. “ZAMREN is doing commendable work in pushing the boundaries of digital transformation in education. You are not only connecting institutions you are connecting minds, ideas and futures,” he said. The Minister urged universities and colleges to fully utilize these innovations by embracing applied research and innovation that tackle Zambia’s developmental challenges. “Our institutions must move beyond theory. I challenge universities and colleges to focus on applied research, research that leads to solutions. We must develop home-grown innovations that address real issues in agriculture, energy, education and beyond. Let us make value addition a local solution, not just a slogan,” Mr. Syakalima emphasized. Looking ahead, ZAMREN will host the 2025 ZAMREN Week and Annual General Meeting(AGM) in September 2025 under the theme “Building a Culture of Research and Innovation for National Development.” The event is expected to draw national and international stakeholders in education, research and ICT.

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April 17, 2025 No Comments
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ZAMREN Hosts World Bank Delegation Under IDEA Project

Lusaka, Zambia The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) hosted a delegation from the World Bank at the ZAMREN House in Lusaka. The visiting team is part of the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) project, an ambitious regional initiative aimed at accelerating digital development and inclusion across the continent.The visit forms part of the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP), which is the second phase of the broader IDEA programme. The World Bank team’s stop at the ZAMREN House was designed to give them a firsthand appreciation of the work ZAMREN is doing to support Zambia’s digital transformation journey, particularly within the research and education sector.Leading the delegation was ZAMREN CEO, Mr. Stein Mkandawire, who facilitated an engaging discussion and guided the visitors on a comprehensive tour of ZAMREN’s facilities. The CEO showcased ZAMREN’s range of services, from affordable broadband connectivity and secure data hosting to identity federation and advanced digital platforms tailored for research and academic institutions.Mr. Mkandawire emphasized that ZAMREN’s strategic mandate goes beyond just internet provision; it is about enabling innovation, collaboration, and digital empowerment among Zambia’s research and education communities. “ZAMREN is not just a network; it is an enabler of research, learning, and progress. Our mission aligns squarely with the pillars of the IDEA project especially in fostering digital infrastructure, digital public platforms, and digital skills,” he said.The World Bank team expressed appreciation for the robust role ZAMREN is playing in bridging the digital divide and advancing the country’s knowledge economy. They commended ZAMREN’s contribution toward enhancing digital resilience and building a digital foundation that supports inclusive growth.Through interactive sessions and demonstrations, the delegation gained deeper insights into how ZAMREN supports universities, research institutions, colleges, and schools, bringing them onto a shared, high-performance digital backbone that enables access to global resources and collaboration with peers across borders.As Zambia accelerates its digital transformation under the DZAP, ZAMREN stands out as a critical stakeholder and trusted partner in realizing national and regional digital goals.The visit reaffirms the importance of partnerships and institutional capacity-building in unlocking Africa’s digital future, especially in ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.

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April 15, 2025 No Comments
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