01/08/2026
CAL HOLDS TEAM-BUILDING WORKSHOP
The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Centre of Advanced Learning (CAL) has launched a two-day team-building Workshop in Siavonga aimed at strengthening teamwork, enhancing professional competencies and reinforcing academic excellence among its Staff. The Workshop brings together senior Officers, academic personnel and support Staff under the theme of building a stronger, more resilient institution capable of meeting the demands of modern military higher education.
Officially opening the Workshop, Commandant of the Centre of Advanced Learning, Brigadier General Malama Richard Bwalya, emphasised that the institution's success depends not only on individual expertise but also on collective effort, collaboration and shared purpose.
Quoting the African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together," the Commandant called on participants to embrace unity as the cornerstone of institutional excellence.
Drawing inspiration from the *local* proverb, Brigadier General Bwalya highlighted the importance of discipline, persistence and lifelong learning. He explained that consistent effort and mastery of knowledge are essential qualities for educators and military professionals alike, noting that education remains a lifelong investment that equips individuals to lead effectively in an increasingly complex world.
The Commandant observed that today's security environment requires Officers who possess not only military competence but also intellectual agility, innovation, critical thinking and adaptability. He stressed that institutions of military higher learning must prepare leaders capable of excelling in research, teaching and strategic decision-making while upholding the Zambia Air Force's core values of discipline, professionalism, integrity, excellence and selfless service.
A major highlight of the Workshop is a series of presentations by distinguished facilitators covering critical aspects of academic and military leadership. Sessions include teaching methodologies, academic excellence, artificial intelligence in higher education, research supervision, mental health, military leadership within academic institutions, and the roles and responsibilities of academic and support Staff. The programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills that will enhance teaching, strengthen research capacity and improve institutional performance.
Recognising that effective teamwork extends beyond the workplace, the organisers also incorporated recreational activities into the programme. Participants are expected to enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Kariba and a visit to Jeremiah Island, activities intended to foster camaraderie, trust and stronger professional relationships while promoting Staff wellbeing. The Commandant noted that organisations flourish when they deliberately invest in the welfare of their people, adding that refreshed minds and united teams are better positioned to deliver excellence.
Describing the Workshop as an investment in the institution and the future leaders it trains, Brigadier General Bwalya encouraged every participant to actively engage in discussions, share experiences and build lasting professional networks. He urged Staff to leave Siavonga with practical strategies that would improve teaching, strengthen research, enhance leadership and promote a culture of mutual support across the institution.
In officially declaring the Workshop open, Brigadier General Bwalya reaffirmed the Centre of Advanced Learning's commitment to producing military professionals equipped to contribute meaningfully to national peace, security and development through quality education, research and exemplary leadership. He expressed confidence that the knowledge and relationships built during the Workshop would inspire innovation, strengthen institutional unity and further advance the mission of the Zambia Air Force. He thanked Air Force Command for the opportunity and support granted to hold the Workshop.
