By Dickson Jere
Zambia is slowly becoming an education hub for the region. So many students from neighbouring countries are enrolling in our universities. This, coupled with local students, has increased demand for bed space. In response, we have unprecedented growth of the so called "Boarding Houses". Even houses and quarters are being turned into students accommodation.
But then, it appears there is no regulations targeted at these Boarding Houses. Any house can be turned in Boarding House without any health checks. Often, these houses are overcrowded and students share one bathroom and toilets. One room can take upto eight students on bunker beds. Hygienically, most of these spaces are not even suitable for human habitation.
I think it is about time that these Boarding Houses should be regulated and frequently inspected. We need order in these places. So many people are getting ill in these houses and including death.
Ministry of Education should take keep interest in this area. Boarding Houses should meet certain minimum standards to be certified as such. Our children are not safe in these Boarding Houses.
It is time to act!
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