Desks of Hopes and Dreams

At Sansamwenje Primary School in Isoka, Zambia, crowded classrooms and a severe shortage of desks have long been a challenge. Many students sit on the floor or share desks, making learning difficult and uncomfortable. The situation was a common sight until recently, when a donation from World Vision Zambia’s Gifts In Kind program changed everything.

Chalin, a 13-year-old girl in Grade 7, remembers the days when she had to share a desk with three classmates or sit cross-legged on the floor. 

“It was hard to concentrate,” she says. “Sometimes I would just move around because there was no space, it was difficult to write, and I couldn’t focus on my lessons.”

Things started to change when the new desks arrived. The teachers and students gathered as the distribution was underway. 

Racheal, 14, a fellow student, could not believe the development as she had no immediate expectation of the situation changing.

“I never expected us to receive such support from anyone. I had no hope,” she says. “Having our own desks makes a big difference. Now we can sit comfortably, and I feel more ready to learn.”

For 12-year-old Kondwani, who is also in Grade 7, added, “Before, I used to share a desk with my friend, but sometimes we argued about who gets to sit where. Now, we each have our own space, and it’s easier to focus on our lessons.”

Chalin, who took the lead in helping organise her classmates during the distribution, shared her feelings about the impact. 

“For me, it’s not just about having a desk. It’s about feeling valued and able to learn comfortably. I want to become a teacher someday, and I know that good desks and a good environment are important for that.”

The impact of the desks goes beyond comfort. Teachers have reported improved concentration and participation from students. 

The school’s headteacher, Ms. Banda, said the school has recorded improved attendance and performance from the students.

“Thanks to World Vision Zambia’s support, our classrooms are now more conducive to learning. The students are happier, and their performance is improving.”

For Chalin and her friends, the desks mean hope and progress. 

“We are excited to learn more and do better in school,” she says. “I am very grateful to World Vision and its supporters for helping us learn in a conducive environment. With these desks, I now feel confident of achieving my dreams.”