ZAMBIA National Education Coalition (ZANEC) has hailed the government for the continued increase in the budget allocated to the education sector.

And a research conducted by ZANEC has revealed that due to increased budgetary allocation coupled with the free education policy, the education enrolment and retention level has continued to rise in the country.

Speaking during the dissemination of the research findings in Lusaka, ZANEC consulted Daniel Araia, explained that the Zambian education system has recorded significant growth both in enrolments and improved access to quality education.

ZANIS reports that Dr Araia attributed the growth to the increased budgetary allocation of up to 20 percent, retention rate especially among the girl child, student performance and the implementation of the school feeding programme.

He also disclosed that there is transparency in the disbursement of the school grants from the Ministry of Education, but called on school management to enhance their transparency and accountability in the administration of the funds.

ZANEC Board Chairperson, Henry Kabwe underscored the need for effective and efficient use of government grants by school administration for the benefit of the learners.

Mr Kabwe stated that this is the only way that institutions will be helped to deal with a number of challenges that have come up due to the implementation of the free education policy such as overcrowding caused by inadequate infrastructure and furniture.

He said ZANEC will use the findings to collaborate with other stakeholders in improving the education standards in the country.