Reading Corners: Florence's Power to Her Children's Literacy

Illiteracy remains one of the biggest challenges facing rural Zambia, especially in communities like World Vision Zambia’s Luswepo Area Programme in Isoka district. Many children grow up without the necessary skills to read and write, limiting their opportunities for a better future. In these areas, lack of access to quality educational resources and awareness often leaves parents unaware of how they can support their children's learning at home. This cycle of illiteracy hampers community development and perpetuates poverty.

But in Luswepo AP, a glimmer of hope is shining through the efforts of dedicated community members and World Vision Zambia. One inspiring story is that of Florence Mugala, a 43-year-old mother whose life and her children’s futures have been transformed through the introduction of Reading Corners and community-based learning initiatives.

Before participating in the 2023 reading awareness training offered by World Vision Zambia, Florence admits she had little idea about how to support her children's learning beyond helping with homework. 

"I had no clue that we could help children at home," she says. Her eldest child, Faith, a 16-year-old in Grade 9, and Wise, an 11-year-old in Grade 5, struggled with their studies. 

“Wise would come home with very low marks, and I would borrow books to try to teach him. It was challenging,” says Florence.

Everything changed after the training. Florence learned that parents are the first teachers for their children, "all lessons begin from home," she emphasises. 

She realised that creating a conducive learning environment at home and in the community could make a significant difference.

Inspired, Florence established a reading corner at home, utilising locally available materials like papers and boxes, a skill she learned during the training. She now helps her children and their friends with reading and homework, extending her support to nine other children from her neighbourhood. She even assists children who are not enrolled in school, recognising the importance of community-driven education.

Thanks to her dedication and the skills gained from the training, Wise's academic performance has improved dramatically. 

"Before, he would pass only 52 out of 152, but now he passes 11,” says Florence. “It’s a big improvement, and it motivates me even more."

Florence’s commitment doesn’t stop at her home. She organises reading camps on weekends, encouraging children to develop a love for reading. She also opened a small community daycare, charging a minimal fee to support more children, around 35 in total, ensuring they have a safe space to learn and grow.

For Precious, Florence's neighbour, a lively 7-year-old girl, learning from home is an exciting experience. 

“It’s nice to learn from home,” she says. "I always come here to learn from Aunt Florence, and I enjoy it."

Florence’s dream is clear; she plans to ensure that many children in the community are able to read and write.

“My vision is to have a big school someday, to help more children in the community," she says.

Florence Mugala’s story exemplifies how empowering parents with the right knowledge and resources can spark lasting change. Her journey demonstrates that when communities come together and harness simple, locally available materials, the future becomes brighter for children who once struggled in silence.