Mulungushi University
&
Chalimbana Local Government Training Institute
| Name of Learning Programme | Master of Art in Local Government Administration (MLA) |
1. Rationale
This course aims to equip students with the skills needed to effectively manage local government services. It highlights the importance of understanding modern administrative practices and the local government system. Students will learn to take leadership roles, utilize management tools, and engage community members to solve problems and promote local development. The course focuses on both day-to-day administration and strategic approaches for improving service delivery.
2. Aims of the programme
The Master of Local Government Administration aims to enhance local government administration in Zambia by exploring the local government environment, key stakeholders, legislation, functions, and roles. It provides a platform for students to exchange ideas and information, helping local government practitioners understand their role as development agents. The course will equip them with tools and techniques to effectively utilize available resources for driving meaningful grassroots development.
3. Programme Objectives
The objectives of the programme are:
- To equip students with advanced academic knowledge and skills for job performance in the local government sector
- To expose students to tools, techniques and trends in modern-day local government administration for effective management and leadership in assemblies
- To examine and relate systems, functions and roles of local governments from a comparative study of other countries
- To foster independent and critical thought by educating students in advanced concepts and techniques in local government practice
- To develop students’ scholarly and professional research skills and to provide a foundation for further study in professional and academic levels.
- To develop students who will be able to shape public policy
4. Duration
Two years designed on semester basis. The entire programme to be conducted in one year theory and one year research.
5. Course Outline
Year one (First Semester)
| Course Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| SSS 811 | Public Policy and Management |
| MLA 821 | Social Planning and Development |
| SSS 821 | Project Planning and Management |
| SSS 831 | Local Economic Development |
| MLA 851 | Local Government Administration |
Year One (Second Semester)
| Course Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| SSS 812 | Strategic Leadership and Management |
| MLA 822 | Environmental Management & Sustainability |
| SSS 822 | Financial Management in Local Authorities |
| MLA 842 | Comparative Local Government Administration |
| MLA 852 | Local Government Law |
Year Two
| Course Code | Course Name | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| SSS 901 | Research Methods & Data Analysis | 1 |
| MLA 900 | Research Project | 2 |
6. Teaching Strategies
Learning shall constitute lectures, projects, discussions, presentations, visual aids, field trips, assignments, case studies and practical training.
7. Entry Requirement
First degree from a recognized university with at least one (1) year working experience
8. Student Assessment
The break down for assessment is as follows:
9. Progression Requirements
A candidate is expected to clear (pass) all the modules of each semester before they can proceed to the next semester.
10. Certification
Degree will be awarded by Chalimbana Local Government Training Institute in conjunction with Mulungushi University.