THE STUDENT'S VOICE
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
FRONTIERS OF KNOWLEDGE & INNOVATION
OUR HISTORY. OUR ORIGIN
CHRONICLES OF THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY
HISTORY OF THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY
Empowering Through Education & Voice Expression
In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, a transformative and prestigious institution emerged on the 19th of July, 2017, as a trailblazing and ground-breaking Not-For-Profit Higher Education Institution, that stands as a beacon of affordable and accessible quality education, empowerment, and advocacy for student voices, especially those who often go UNHEARD. As a Not-For-Profit Higher Education Institution, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY (SVU) is here to stay, RESHAPING the landscape of higher education for a brighter, and more inclusive future.
The rising of the University signaled a new era of Online and Open Distance Learning (ODL), student development and empowerment, restructuring the way higher education is accessed and experienced. The birth of THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY was not just an event; it was a proclamation of educational accessibility and affordability, a celebration of student voices, and a commitment to social change around the world.
With a stanch commitment to providing quality education while also serving as a platform for student voice expression, the University has quickly garnered public attention for its innovative student centric approach to education, and its dedication to addressing the real needs of students, especially those in financial distress through Student Loans and Scholarships.
LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
The Core Mission of THE STUDENT’S VOICE UNIVERSITY is to provide affordable and accessible, innovative, and student-centric education while amplifying the voices of students and empowering them to make a difference in the world.
This comprehensive history delves into the key aspects of SVU's journey, including: our origin - founding legal principles, vision and mission; incorporation and legal framework; university management and board of directors and governors; embracing online and open distance education; amplifying student voices; academic offerings and growth; championing accessibility, inclusivity, and equity; the inception of The Student’s Voice Academy (SVA), and continuing the journey with a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that enrich the lives of our students..
OUR ORIGIN - FOUNDING LEGAL PRINCIPLES, VISION AND MISSION
The roots of THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY can be traced back to a group of passionate Adult Educators, activists, and visionaries such as Mr. Joseph MAKUNGU, Baldwin PHIRI and Medson Mabaso CHIRWA who believed in the power of education to uplift individuals and communities from Poverty and illiteracy: initiated by Mr. Joseph MAKUNGU as the Principal Founder and Promoter of The Student Voice.
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Pursuant to Article 3 of the Articles of Association (Amendment No.1) of 2022, it is provided that:
“The origin (Jurisprudence) of The Student’s Voice University (being a private company limited by guarantee), governed and managed by the Board of Governors and Directors with vision and leadership, can be found in the recognition that, in the fight against Poverty and illiteracy without prejudice to violence, the University can have a greater and positive impact when the members of the University are able to act together, in coalition and partnership with others, at all levels, from local to national to global in pursuance of the provisions in the Articles, the Companies Act and the Higher Education Act or any other written law relating to education.”
The seeds of THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY were sown with a VISION to bridge the gap between education and Student Voice expression. As a response to the growing demand for accessible and affordable higher education, and a dire need for a platform for Student Voices, the Founder and Executive Director, Mr. Joseph MAKUNGU, envisioned an academic institution that not only provided learning opportunities, but also advocated for students' rights, amplified their stories, and gave them a VOICE in their academic journey.
Fueled by the idea that education should be available to all, regardless of geographical location or financial means, the Founders embarked on an expeditious journey to create an academic institution that would redefine the concept of higher learning and RESHAPE the landscape of higher education in Zambia and the world at large.
INCORPORATION AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY was established pursuant to the provisions of The Companies Act No. 10 of 2017, Chapter 388 of the Laws of Zambia, signifying its formal establishment as a legal entity, having a Separate Legal Personality with Perpetual Succession and a Common Seal, with full legal powers to do all such lawful acts as a Corporate may, by law, do or perform. This step was essential to ensure that the University's corporate governance, operations, and activities are aligned with regulatory requirements and upheld the principles of transparency and accountability.
This formal recognition not only established the Institution's legitimacy, but also showcased its commitment to adhering to legal and regulatory standards.
Thus, in carrying out its objectives, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY complies with both the Companies Act, 2017 and the requirements of The Higher Education Act No.4 of 2013 of Zambia or any other statutory amendments thereof, including any other written law relating to education.
UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND GOVERNORS
THE STUDENT’S VOICE UNIVERSITY (SVU) was founded in 2017 with a Vision to revolutionize higher education by putting students at the forefront of decision-making. Throughout its history, the University has been governed by a dedicated and inaugural or initial Board of Directors and Governors, comprising eminent educators, thought leaders, and industry experts such as Mr. Joseph MAKUNGU, Mr. Medson Mabaso CHIRWA, and Mr. Baldwin PHIRI, who shared a common Vision for RESHAPING the landscape of higher education and commitment to student empowerment around the world.
Mr. Joseph MAKUNGU, served as the Founder and first Executive Director, leading the charge in advocating for students' voices to be HEARD and valued in every aspect of academic life. These individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping SVU's policies, ensuring its financial stability, and fostering a culture of innovation. Hence the MOTTO: “Frontiers of Knowledge & Innovation,” reflecting its commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in pursuit of excellence in education.
EMBRACING ONLINE AND OPEN DISTANCE EDUCATION: A NEW FRONTIER
At a time when traditional brick-and-mortar universities were the norm, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY dared to be different. Recognizing the potential of digital technology to democratize education, the University was established as an Online and Open Distance Learning Institution in its initial stage, with bigger plans to broaden the modes of study to include: Full-Time, Part-Time and Parallel learning, among others. This decision marked a pivotal shift in the higher education landscape, allowing students to access quality education without the constraints of physical presence.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY recognized the potential of Online and Open Distance Learning (ODL) to revolutionize higher education. By leveraging digital technologies, the University is able to transcend geographical and continental barriers and offer quality education to individuals who might have otherwise been excluded due to location, time constraints, or financial limitations. This digital approach to education enables our students from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful and quality learning experiences, fostering a global voice and community of learners.
AMPLIFYING STUDENT VOICES
A Catalyst for Student Empowerment
The University's name, "THE STUDENT'S VOICE," was not chosen arbitrarily. It was a reflection of its core philosophy – to give a platform to STUDENTS' VOICES, concerns and aspirations. Beyond imparting knowledge, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY aims to be a conduit for students to express themselves, advocate for their needs, and become active participants in their own education.
The University's dedication to being a platform for student voice expression truly sets it apart. Recognizing the power of students' voices, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY has championed the cause of those facing financial distress and has provided a space for them to share their stories, challenges, and academic aspirations. By acting as a "VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS" pursuant to the Articles of Association and in accordance with Proverbs 31: 8-9, the University has not only facilitated a supportive academic community, but also brought attention to the unique struggles faced by students in need of education across the globe.
ACADEMIC OFFERINGS AND GROWTH
Expanding Educational Horizons
In its initial years, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY has focused on offering Diploma and Certificate Programmes designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge that are relevant, practical, and aligned with industry and current real-world demands. This pragmatic approach ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to excel in their chosen fields or careers.
Though initially offering diploma and certificate programs, the University will continue to evolve its curriculum, adding a diverse array of disciplines that span business, education, health, law, technology, engineering, arts, and more. These programmes are meticulously designed to equip graduates with the skills required to excel in their chosen fields of study.
As the University continues to evolve, it explores opportunities to expand its academic programme offerings, diversifying its academic portfolio to cater for a wider range of disciplines and student interests across the world.
CHAMPIONING ACCESSIBILITY, INCLUSIVITY, AND EQUITY IN EDUCATION
One of the chief cornerstones of the University's philosophy is the belief that education should be affordable and accessible to all, regardless of financial status. To address this, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY introduced innovative Student Loan Options and Scholarship programs to ensure that financial barriers would not become a roadblock or hinder deserving individuals from pursuing their education.
These financial aid initiatives are aimed to provide financial assistance to talented and deserving individuals who lack the means to pursue higher education. By doing so, the University ensures that potential students do not miss out on educational opportunities due to financial constraints. This commitment resonates deeply with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering a community that is both diverse and united in its pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
CONTINUING OUR JOURNEY...
Pushing the Frontiers of Knowledge & Innovation
As THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its commitment to its founding vision of advancing knowledge, innovation, empowering minds and amplifying voices. With each passing year, the University strives to enhance the quality of its educational offerings, strengthen its support systems for students, and continue its advocacy for accessible education and student voice expression.
From its establishment under the Companies Act to its innovative approach to online and open distance education, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY stands as a testament to the power of vision, determination, and a resolute belief in the potential of every student's voice. As the University looks ahead, it carries with it a rich antiquity of breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and transforming lives through education and voice expression.
As it moves forward, THE STUDENT'S VOICE UNIVERSITY is not just a name; it is a symbol of creativity and innovation, empowerment, and the transformative potential of education in shaping a better future for individuals and communities alike.
SHAPING A BRIGHTER FUTURE!
JOIN US! LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD