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About ZCAS University

ZCAS University is a Tier 1 private university established by the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies to deliver industry-responsive higher education.

ZCAS University Limited was established in 2016 by the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS) as a private university and incorporated as a Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate the development, delivery, and awarding of academic degree programmes in accordance with the provisions of the Higher Education Act No. 4 of 2013 of the Republic of Zambia.

The establishment of the University represented a strategic step in the evolution of ZCAS, an institution with a long-standing reputation for excellence in professional education and training, particularly in accountancy, finance, and business-related disciplines. Building on this strong foundation, ZCAS University was created to expand access to quality higher education and to contribute meaningfully to the development of highly skilled professionals capable of addressing Zambia's socio-economic development needs.

The University offers a broad range of academic programmes across several disciplines, including business, finance, accounting, economics, information technology, monitoring and evaluation, project management, law and related fields. These programmes are designed to combine strong theoretical grounding with practical and industry-relevant skills, thereby preparing graduates to effectively compete in both local and global environments.

In 2022, ZCAS University attained Tier 1 institutional classification from the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the highest category of institutional accreditation in Zambia's higher education system. This classification authorises the University to offer academic programmes at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, and reflects the institution's compliance with rigorous standards relating to governance, academic quality, research capacity, infrastructure, and student support services.

Since its establishment, ZCAS University has continued to grow in enrolment, academic offerings, and research output. The University remains committed to providing quality education, fostering innovation and research, promoting ethical leadership, and strengthening partnerships with industry and other academic institutions both locally and internationally.

Through its teaching, research, and community engagement activities, ZCAS University seeks to contribute to national development, economic transformation, and the cultivation of future-fit leaders capable of addressing contemporary challenges and shaping a sustainable future.

Strategic direction

Vision

To be a premier, innovative, and student-centred university of first choice in Zambia and beyond.

Purpose

Mission

To produce world-class graduates through effective development and delivery of industry-responsive learning programmes using highly skilled staff and cutting-edge technologies.

Culture

Core Values

Integrity, Academic and Professional Excellence, Customer Responsiveness, Teamwork, Innovation, Accountability.

Professor Emeritus Edwin Bbenkele (PhD; MBA; BA; FZIM), Vice Chancellor

Foreword from the Vice Chancellor

ZCAS University remains committed to academic excellence, innovation, research, public service and industry-responsive graduate preparation.

It is with great honour and immense pride that I extend warm greetings on behalf of the University Council, Senate, Management, Staff, and Students of ZCAS University on the occasion of this Graduation Ceremony. Today, we celebrate the achievements, resilience, and dedication of our graduands.

As a Tier 1 institution recognised by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), ZCAS University remains committed to academic excellence, innovation, research, and public service. In response to the rapidly evolving global and national landscape, the University is strategically repositioning itself to promote entrepreneurship and innovation and become industry-responsive.

ZCAS University aspires to become a leading hub for industry-driven solutions through strengthened collaboration with industry, government, and strategic partners. The University seeks to advance research, innovation, and practical problem-solving initiatives that address national development priorities and respond to the evolving demands of the modern economy.

As a university-of-choice for our clients and the interface between learners and employers, it is our role to ensure that our graduates can perform as required in industry, which in turn raises their employability. We have therefore identified a range of opportunities that will help us to increase interaction and exchange with this key stakeholder group.

Lastly, I would like to encourage all our alumni to join the ZCAS Alumni Association and find out how you can contribute to the success of ZCAS University.

Governance

History and Governance

ZCAS University was founded as a subsidiary of the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS) to enable it to develop, deliver and award academic degrees according to the provisions of the Higher Education Act (No. 4 of 2013).

The University is overseen by the University Council, with day-to-day management handled by the Top Management that includes the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Consultancy and Innovation), Registrar, Chief Financial Officer and Dean of Students.

Schools and directorates

Academic Structure

The schools within ZCAS University include the School of Business (SoB), the School of Social Sciences (SoSS), the School of Computing, Technology & Applied Sciences (SoCTAS), and the School of Law (SoL).

The Directorate of Open, Distance and E-Learning anchors the administrative activities for programmes offered under open and distance learning modes. The Directorate of Research, Consultancy & Innovation coordinates research in conjunction with the schools, while the Directorate of Postgraduate Studies coordinates support for master's and doctoral programmes.

Student choice

Why Choose ZCAS University?

Recognised and accredited learning programmes up to Doctorate/PhD level with a strong academic reputation.

Rich academic environment and resources for student success
Flexible study options and robust e-learning
Strong industry connections
Effective welfare and student support systems
Robust quality assurance

Research

Research and Consultancy

Through its Directorate of Research, Consultancy & Innovation, the University engages in applied research, training, and consultancy services for the government, private sector, and NGOs.

Campus

Facilities and Student Life

The University offers modern classrooms, air-conditioned lecture halls, ICT labs, and e-learning platforms such as the Student Information System, DSpace, and Koha Library.

It supports diverse learning modes and provides furnished accommodation, career services, counselling, and job placement support.

Impact

Achievements and Community Impact

ZCAS University is recognised as a top institution for academic training. Its students frequently receive national awards, including ICTAZ recognitions for excellence in IT and Cyber Security.

Management