In a significant event held at the University of Zambia (UNZA) on Thursday, September 11, 2025, African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Nardos Bekele-Thomas presented a public lecture titled, "Agenda 2063: An African Identity and Building the Africa We Want". The lecture, which was attended by Ministry of Education, students, and faculty, focused on the seven "moonshots" of the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063.
The seven key ambitions highlighted during the lecture are:
- Every African Union Member State attains at least middle-income status.
- Africa is more integrated and connected.
- Public institutions are more responsive.
- Africa resolves conflicts amicably.
- African values are explicit and promoted.
- African citizens are more empowered and more productive.
- Africa is a strong and influential global player.
Following the lecture, a Declaration of Intent was signed between AUDA-NEPAD and UNZA. This partnership is a concrete step towards advancing shared priorities in the skills and education sectors. The agreement outlines several areas of cooperation, including:
- Translating academic research into practical programmes that impact Africa’s development.
- Using research outcomes to inform evidence-based policymaking at national, regional, and continental levels.
- Creating opportunities for students and graduates through entrepreneurship, internships, and career pathways across Africa.
- Strengthening collaboration and facilitating knowledge sharing between UNZA, AUDA-NEPAD, and other African universities.
Speaking at the same event the University of Zambia Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mundia Muya, welcomed the partnership, stating it is a reflection of the university's commitment to preparing the next generation of African leaders and ensuring that intellectual capital directly supports both Zambia's development priorities and the continental transformation under Agenda 2063. The partnership is also aligned with frameworks such as the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA 2026-35) and the Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2034).
The event was also attended by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, who underscored the importance of youth in advancing Agenda 2063 and building a prosperous, peaceful, and united Africa. She encouraged students to embrace a Pan-African identity, innovate boldly, and be the architects of the continent's future.