FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WITH PICTURES
NOVEMBER 4, 2025
TEN SOLWEZI SCHOOLS PARTICIPATE IN LANDMARK AI HACKATHON, SUPPORTED BY FQM KANSANSHI
SOLWEZI, ZAMBIA – Students from ten schools across Solwezi are at the forefront of an educational revolution, participating in a transformative hackathon themed “Shaping the Future of Learning with Artificial Intelligence.” The event, supported by FQM’s Kansanshi Mining PLC, highlights a significant investment in digital literacy and innovative problem-solving within the region’s education system.
The hackathon follows the donation of 325 computers to sixteen schools and the District and Provincial Education offices by the mining firm, coupled with comprehensive training for teachers to ensure effective integration of the new technology.
Speaking at the launch of the event, North-Western Province Education Officer, Frederick Munkinyi, stated that the mining firm’s contribution to the development of the education sector in the district will echo through time, as young learners grow to become the teachers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders of tomorrow.
“The recent donation of 325 computers to sixteen schools in Solwezi has been nothing short of transformational. This generous contribution represents more than just equipment; it represents belief in our children, investment in our future, and a partnership that will yield dividends for generations to come.
Kansanshi did not stop at providing hardware. They ensured that teachers received comprehensive training to support leaners in preparing for the Hackathon. This holistic approach demonstrates a deep understanding that technology alone is not enough we need skilled educators to guide young learners as they navigate the digital landscape,” he said.
Addressing the participants, Mr Munkinyi urged them to become creators of technology, and that they stand at the threshold of a revolution in education.
“Artificial Intelligence is no longer the stuff of science fiction; it is here, it is real, and it is reshaping every aspect of our lives, including how we teach and how we learn. This Hackathon provides you with a unique opportunity to be creators, not just consumers, of technology,” he continued.
He challenged students to develop AI tools that personalise learning, extend quality education to remote communities, and make learning more engaging.
Speaking at the same event, Kansanshi Mining PLC Assistant General Manager, Axel Kottgen, reiterated the company’s commitment to community investment.
“We believe that mining is not just about extracting resources from the ground; it is about investing in the communities where we operate and building a sustainable future for all. Education has always been at the heart of our corporate social responsibility because we understand a simple truth: the greatest resource we can develop is human potential,” Mr Kottgen said.
He highlighted Kansanshi’s own use of AI and advanced technologies and encouraged students to consider real-world challenges in their solutions.
“We want you to think about the real problems you see in your schools and communities. Don’t be constrained by what currently exists; imagine what could be. That is the essence of innovation.”
The hackathon aims to foster problem-solving, collaboration, digital literacy, and creative thinking skills identified as crucial for success in the 21st century.
The schools that took part in the hackathon were Kyawama Secondary School, Solwezi Trades Secondary School, Rodwel Mwepu Secondary School, Solwezi Technical School, Mbonge Day Secondary School, Kapijimpanga Secondary School, Kimakolve Scondary School, and Kyafukuma Secondary School. And Solwezi Trades Secondary School emerged victorious at the two-day hackathon, achieving an impressive score of 441 points.
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) believes that the two-day event encourages students to collaborate, innovate, and develop solutions that can genuinely improve education for their peers and future generations. And that FQM is committed to a long-term partnership with government by continuing to support digital literacy, STEM education, and innovation in the province.
FQM’s investments in the sustainability and community development programmes are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 4 aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. FQM’s extensive education programmes at its two mines in North-Western Province, Zambia, support this goal. These programmes include the Kansanshi Quality Education Improvement Programme (KanEQuIP), support for Early Childhood Education, Solwezi Trades Training programmes, and numerous school projects.
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About First Quantum Minerals Ltd
First Quantum Minerals Ltd is a global metals and mining company producing mainly copper, gold and nickel. The company’s assets are in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru.
In 2024, First Quantum globally produced 431,000 tonnes of copper, 139,000 ounces of gold and 24,000 tonnes of nickel.
In Zambia it operates the Kansanshi mine and smelter in Solwezi, and the Sentinel copper mine and the Enterprise nickel mine in Kalumbila.
The company is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
http://www.first-quantum.com/
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