A local civic movement, Build Zambia, is advising civil servants to reconsider pursuing academic qualifications late in their careers, arguing that such decisions may not offer long-term economic value compared to investing in inheritable assets.
Speaking during an interview on Radio Christian Voice, Build Zambia Chief Executive Officer Joseph Mushalika said individuals approaching retirement should focus more on wealth-building assets such as land, housing, and productive investments rather than returning to formal education.
He argued that while education remains important, timing is critical for its economic benefit.
“There is nothing wrong with going to school, but do not be late… Do not go to school when it is too late in terms of economic value for the family,” Mushalika said.
Mushalika further suggested that academic qualifications, unlike physical or financial assets, do not provide generational value once the holder passes on, a point he used to support his call for prioritising property ownership.
He questioned the practicality of enrolling in higher education at an advanced age, particularly for individuals nearing retirement.
“Why are you going to school to be in first year when your first born child is in fourth year? What are you going to do at school when you have four years to retire?” he asked.
According to Mushalika, adults in their later working years should instead focus on investments that can be passed on to their families, such as land, infrastructure, or equipment that can generate income.
“Adults should be meeting at places where they can buy tractors or solar panels, not in bookworld to look for text books,” he explained
He added that many people pursue education later in life as a way of fulfilling long-postponed ambitions, which he described as financially unstrategic if done close to retirement age.
However, his remarks have stirred mixed reactions, as critics argue that lifelong learning remains valuable for personal development, career advancement, and adapting to changing job markets, regardless of age.
JUST TO UNLOCK YOUR MIND
The debate highlights a growing conversation in Zambia around financial planning, retirement preparedness, and the balance between education and investment priorities among working professionals.
[Brave Heart News | UnlockingMinds]
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