Evelyn Hone College on Friday, 24 July 2026, held its 59th Graduation Ceremony under the theme, “Promoting Competence-Based Training and Entrepreneurship for Inclusive Sustainable Development.” The ceremony celebrated the graduation of 2,197 students from the Schools of Business and Management Studies, Applied and Health Sciences, Education and Social Sciences, and Media and Information Studies.
The Guest of Honour was the Director of Planning and Information at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Mr. Derick Saboi, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu. The event highlighted the critical role of competence-based education, innovation and entrepreneurship in producing graduates capable of driving Zambia’s economic transformation in line with the Government’s development agenda.
Mr. Saboi congratulated the graduating class and commended Evelyn Hone College for its long-standing contribution to Zambia’s human capital development through quality technical and vocational education.
He said the graduation theme aligns with Government’s commitment to economic diversification, industrialisation and job creation through competence-based training. He emphasized that practical skills, innovation and entrepreneurship are essential for preparing young people for the modern labour market.
Mr. Saboi further encouraged institutions to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to equip graduates with future-ready skills. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting skills development through continued investment in education infrastructure, the Skills Development Fund and programmes that promote innovation and entrepreneurship.
He encouraged graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers, urging them to embrace resilience, innovation and lifelong learning as they contribute to Zambia’s socio-economic development.
Board Chairperson, Dr. Doreen Shampela emphasized that competence-based education equips learners with practical skills, professionalism and entrepreneurial capabilities required in today’s dynamic labour market. She noted that the College continues to strengthen partnerships with industry to ensure its programmes remain responsive to national and global workforce demands.
Dr. Shampela encouraged graduates to uphold integrity, professionalism and continuous learning while using their knowledge to create employment opportunities, improve communities and contribute to national development.
She also expressed appreciation to the Government, cooperating partners, management, staff, parents and guardians for their continued support towards the growth and success of Evelyn Hone College.
Acting Principal,Mrs. Charity G.Nyirongo highlighted the College’s continued commitment to competence-based training by offering practical programmes that equip students with industry-relevant skills across various disciplines.
She noted that the institution has strengthened entrepreneurship, inclusive education and industry partnerships to ensure graduates are prepared for employment and self-employment. She also acknowledged Government support through bursaries, TEVETA, the Ministry of Technology and Science and the ongoing construction of student hostels, which will improve learning conditions.
Despite these achievements, she identified inadequate classroom space, laboratories and modern training equipment as key challenges requiring continued investment.
Addressing the graduates, Mrs. Nyirongo encouraged them to uphold the College’s motto, “Knowledge with Integrity,” by demonstrating professionalism, innovation and ethical leadership. She urged them to use their practical skills to create solutions, establish businesses and make meaningful contributions to national development.
The 59th Evelyn Hone College Graduation Ceremony reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing competent, innovative and entrepreneurial graduates equipped to meet the demands of Zambia’s evolving economy. The ceremony also underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between Government, industry and academic institutions in strengthening technical and vocational education, fostering innovation and empowering young people to become active contributors to the country’s socio-economic transformation.
