The University of Edinburgh is proud to play its part in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Volunteer Zambia. This international sports volunteering programme is a collaboration between the Wallace Group universities and run in partnership with Sport in Action in Zambia. Since 2005, the programme has used sport as a vehicle to promote youth development, education, and gender equality across Zambia. This week, a 20th Anniversary Gala event takes place in-country celebrating the impact of the project, while looking forward to how UK universities can continue to support the development on Zambian sport. The event will showcase community sport with a number of festivals across Lusaka; dignitaries from the UK and Zambia will visit hubsites and engage with stakeholders; and there will be a celebration event at the British High Commission.Edinburgh University Sports Union has supported students in their participation in the project which involves delivering coach education and leadership skills across netball, basketball, and womens football. Students have also undertaken roles within media, marketing and communications. Student volunteers have worked closely with local coaches to strengthen community sport, deliver coach education, and promote inclusive participation—empowering thousands of young people in the process, with a particular focus on women in sport.Volunteer Zambia exemplifies Edinburgh’s global outlook and commitment to international collaboration. It offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sustainable development, intercultural engagement, and leadership, while contributing to long-term, community-owned outcomes in Zambia.Jamie Liversidge, 3rd year Physical Education student at Moray House School of Education and Sport, who was part of this years cohort, gave an insight to his experience: It’s hard to fully express just how valuable my time in Zambia has been. I approached the experience with the most open mind possible, ready to embrace every opportunity and it turned out to be two of the best months of my life.I’ve gained so much from this experience. It has confirmed my desire to pursue a career in PE teaching, club development, or coach development. My time working with Zambian coaches during the placement was especially rewarding, offering hands-on experience that I found both meaningful and inspiring.Spending eight weeks immersed in coach development while also learning about a different culture and enjoying the Zambian sunshine every day was truly unforgettable. The University’s involvement aligns with its broader international strategy to build equitable partnerships and global citizenship through education, research, and service.Mark Munro, Director of Sport & Active Health, said: Volunteer Zambia has been a life-changing experience for students participating in this project, as well as the Zambian coaches and communities they work with.Celebrating 20 years of the Volunteer Zambia project is a tribute to the extraordinary power of sport to change lives. For our student volunteers it’s a transformative journey that shapes their character and ignites their leadership potential. They return not only as better coaches, but as more confident, compassionate, and globally minded individuals.For the Zambian coaches and communities, the project has helped unlock opportunities, nurture talent, and build lasting bonds rooted in mutual respect and shared passion. This anniversary is a celebration of people growing together, learning from one another, and leaving a legacy far greater than any one moment. As the programme enters its third decade, the University of Edinburgh remains committed to expanding its impact through responsible volunteering and collaborative development. Preparations are underway for the 2026 cohort, who will receive training and support to continue this meaningful work on the ground in Zambia. This article was published on 2025-08-01
