About NORTEC
Zambia’s premier technical and vocational college — training craftsmen, technicians, and technologists since 1964.
Est. 1964 · TEVETA-accredited
Our Vision
A leading engineering institution in technical and vocational training in the region.
Our Mission
To provide quality technical and vocational training in order to meet industry needs and contribute to socio-economic development.
WHO WE ARE
Six decades of turning technical skills into national impact.
Founded in 1964, Northern Technical College (NORTEC) was established to train the technical workforce Zambia’s copper mines needed to thrive. Six decades later, that mandate has expanded — but the mission is unchanged: build the skilled hands and sharp minds Zambia’s industries run on.
Today NORTEC ranks among Zambia’s leading technical training institutions. Our graduates power the mining, construction, energy, ICT, and services sectors — at home and across the region. We continue to design courses that tackle Zambia’s most pressing challenges, from youth unemployment to industrial skills gaps.
NORTEC is a quasi-government institution administered by a Management Board and accredited by TEVETA.
At a Glance
- Founded: 1964
- Status: Quasi-government, board-administered
- Accreditation: TEVETA
- Location: Chela Road, Ndola
- Departments: 4
Our Journey
Milestones on the road from 1964 to today.
1964
Founded to serve Zambia's mining industry.
1980s
Portfolio expanded into electrical and automotive trades.
1998
TEVETA accreditation formalised.
2010s
Applied Sciences & Business Studies department launched.
2020
Distance Learning platform introduced.
2024
60th anniversary. New industry partnerships announced.
Our Academic Departments
Four schools, dozens of pathways.
Applied Sciences & Business Studies
Biomedical, laboratory science, computer studies, business.
Automotive
Diesel plant, hydraulics, auto-electrical, HER.
Electrical
Power, electronics, HVAC, refrigeration.
Mechanical
Fitting, machining, welding, production management.
How You Can Study
Study the way that fits your life.
Full-Time
Daytime, on-campus. The traditional route.
Part-Time
Evenings & weekends. Keep your job while you study.
Distance Learning
From anywhere in Zambia. Online + occasional residentials.
Short Courses
2–12 week focused skills programmes.
Our Values
The principles behind everything we do.
Integrity
Honest, sincere, and ethical in conduct.
Professionalism
The highest standards in everything we do.
Team Spirit
Common objectives through mutual respect.
Pro-activeness
Alert and taking initiative to resolve challenges early.
Efficiency
Using time, effort, and money for their intended purpose.
Excellence
Products and services that surpass ordinary standards.
Innovativeness
Better solutions that meet real industry needs.
Looking Forward
NORTEC remains focused on being a reputable skills training provider in Zambia and the region; a TVET-sector leader and an important solution to Zambia’s technological, economic, and social challenges. We continue to design courses that address the country’s most pressing needs: youth unemployment, industrial skills gaps, and the demand for a modern, competent workforce.