A Gift of Chairs and Toys Triples Learner Enrolment at Kalungu Primary

Early childhood education in Zambia faces numerous challenges, particularly in rural areas. Classrooms are often overcrowded with limited resources. Children sit on the floor, hard ground, which makes learning uncomfortable and sometimes discourages them from attending regularly. Teachers struggle to manage large groups with minimal materials, and the lack of proper furniture hampers both teaching and learning.

At Kalungu Primary School in Isoka, a 32-year-old Teacher, Lenganji Nachalwe, has experienced challenges hindering the delivery of lessons. 

"Most of our children used to sit on the floor during lessons," she explains. "They would get tired quickly, and it was hard to keep them focused. Sometimes, we had to swap seats or have some children wait while others wrote, which disrupted the flow of the lesson."

The children’s motivation was declining, and attendance was affected. 

"Sometimes I wanted to sit and learn, but there weren’t enough chairs. I had to stand or sit on the ground," says 5-year-old Meden.

Recognising the need for change, the school approached World Vision Zambia for support. And through its Gifts In Kind Programme, the organisation donated chairs to the school. The arrival of new chairs brought a wave of excitement to the classroom. 

"When we received the chairs, I couldn’t believe the difference," says Lenganji. "The children were so happy. They now had a comfortable place to sit, and they looked forward to coming to school."

Meden shares, "I like the new chairs! I can sit properly and learn better. Now, I don’t have to wait or sit on the floor."

"Before, I had to wait my turn. Now, everyone has their own chair, and I can focus more," says 5-year-old Daniel.

For Ms. Lenganji, the impact was immediate; class management became easier, as the children could sit comfortably and stay engaged. The teachers found it simpler to organise lessons, and children’s enthusiasm increased. 

"The chairs help us teach better and conduct our lessons," she says. "The children are more motivated, and we can see their enthusiasm for learning grow."

Ms. Lenganji expressed her excitement with the growing number of children enrolling at the school.

“Since receiving the support, enrolment for the nursery section has tripled, from 59 students to 177, with 94 girls and 83 boys. More children are eager to learn, and the classroom environment has become more welcoming,” she says.

"To the supporters of World Vision, we ask you to continue your support. You are making a real change in our lives and making the learner experience better. These toys and chairs are helping our children learn and play in a better environment."

The simple gift of chairs has transformed their classroom, turning a place of struggle into a space of joy and learning.