This publication by the Ministry of Education provides guidance on the implementation of Zambia’s Re-Entry Policy, which supports learners, particularly girls who leave school due to pregnancy, to return to education and complete their studies. It reaffirms the right of every learner to education and promotes inclusive, equitable, and non-discriminatory learning opportunities.

The 2026 guidelines are grounded in national legislation and international commitments, including the Education Act No. 23 of 2011, the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, the Gender Equity and Equality Act No. 22 of 2015, and relevant United Nations conventions and Sustainable Development Goals. Building on the Re-Entry Policy introduced in 1997 and the standardised guidelines developed in 2004, this revision responds to implementation gaps identified during a comprehensive review conducted in 2023 with support from UNESCO.

The publication is intended for teachers, school administrators, education officials, parents, guardians, and other stakeholders involved in learner welfare and education management. It promotes the prevention of school dropouts, the reduction of gender disparities, and the provision of supportive school environments that enable learners to return to school, continue learning, and successfully complete their education.