Strengthening the relationship between Zambia and Ireland: an education focus
A partnership between Ballyfermot College of Further Education Ireland and Evelyn Hone College Zambia
Ireland and Zambia have a historical relationship spanning over 60 years, with education and knowledge exchanges being a consistent cornerstone of the relationship from the start.
One partnership is the collaboration between the Ballyfermot College of Further Education in Dublin and Evelyn Hone College in Zambia, supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Lusaka. Established in 2006, this partnership has produced the very first education and training programme in Creative Digital Media and Web Design in Zambia, as well other valuable courses such as Audio Music Technology and Audio Music Production.
In 2022, Ballyfermot College and Evelyn Hone College announced plans to establish a Centre of Excellence for the Creative Arts. This facility is aimed at empowering young people interested in pursuing a career in the arts with the latest industry skills.
The project is aligned to Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan agenda for job creation and the enhancement of citizen participation in the economy. It also assists in addressing challenges that the large youth population of Zambia have in accessing skills development.
In support of the new Centre, Ireland has committed to providing audio and music equipment, as well as curriculum development support, with the Government of Zambia committing to providing the infrastructure to house the Centre of Excellence.
The partnership has also led to the design of diploma level curriculum in the various courses up to the TEVETA level 6 qualification of the Zambia Qualifications Authority. The development of the curriculum has in turn allowed Zambian teachers at Evelyn Hone College to get training on developing courses in graphics, audio music technology, and creative digital media.
Additionally, the partnership supports exchange visits of teachers and students between Ireland and Zambia. These visits allow the teachers and students an opportunity to share skills in graphic design and music, as well as enabling mutual learning in the development of new curricula and facilitating cultural and artistic exchanges. The establishment of the Centre of Excellence is jointly managed by teachers from both colleges and there is an opportunity for former students on the courses to be part of the advisory committee and to share their industry experience. The partnership continues to be greatly appreciated by members of both colleges and former students.
“It has been an absolute privilege to be involved in an international project between Ballyfermot College of Further Education, Dublin and Evelyn Hone College in Lusaka, Zambia in the development of Zambia's first Diploma qualifications in Creative Music Production, Graphic Design, and Animation. A highlight has been watching the results of the collaborations between BCFE and EHC staff which has been evident from the remarkable success of the Creative Digital Media and Audio and Music Technology Diplomas previously developed.
The first exhibition of contemporary Zambian Art was held during Dublin's Africa Day celebrations in May 2023, and BCFE animation and music students participated in a Creative Camp in Lusaka in June 2023. The projects engagement with creative industries in Lusaka and Dublin throughout 2023 was a very welcomed and beneficial evolution in the projects scope, raising awareness of the strong creative links between Zambia and Ireland that are there to be built upon." Liam Caffrey, Project Coordinator 2019-2024
"The trip to Zambia was a real eye opening experience, working with Evelyn Hone staff and students and seeing how enthusiastically they embraced teaching and learning using what they have and not focusing on what they don’t have. Both teachers and students showed confidence and commitment to their subjects and an optimistic outlook for the future. An enriching experience that will stay with me." Denise Moylan, BCFE Animation teacher
From the first flight out to the last flight back it was so full of first-time experiences that I’m struggling to comprehend just how short a trip it was!...Connecting with people from an entirely different place and culture showed me first-hand that people far way have their own lives and ambitions, and through shared experiences in things such as media we can relate to each other and form connections. Stephen Donnelly, former BCFE Student
"The Creative Digital Media Diploma at Evelyn Hone College empowers students such as myself with cutting-edge skills in the rapidly evolving Zambian digital landscape. As a testament to its impact, it has been a transformative experience for many, including myself, providing a solid foundation for a successful journey in digital media. I highly recommend individuals with an interest in creative digital media to take on this program and be part of the evolving Zambian Digital Landscape" Sikwe Siamulonga, Former Evelyn Hone Student