Transforming Education at Katoba Primary School: A Story of Hope and Inspiration

Many rural schools in Zambia face big challenges. One of the biggest problems is low literacy levels among children. Without good reading and writing skills, children find it hard to learn other subjects and achieve their dreams. But thanks to the help of World Vision Zambia and its education programmes, schools like Katoba Primary are beginning to change this story.

One important programme is called the Zambia Reading for Education and Development (ZREAD). This programme aims to improve reading skills among children in Zambia. It provides books, teaching tools, and training for teachers. With ZREAD, children learn to read more easily and enjoy their lessons. The programme also teaches teachers how to use fun and simple ways to help children understand reading and writing.

A key part of the ZREAD programme is the Unlock Literacy model. This model is a special approach used to help teachers teach reading and writing in a better way. Teachers learn new methods to make lessons interesting and easy to understand. They learn how to use local things like pictures, stories, and materials from their community to teach children. This makes learning more relatable and fun for the students.

At Katoba Primary School, one teacher who has used the Unlock Literacy model is Ms. Julia Mwewa. She says, “Before the training, I found it hard to teach reading. Now, I use new ways to help my pupils learn. I also write my own stories using things from our village. The children love it, and they learn faster.”

Julia’s students include Minim, an 11-year-old girl in Grade 4, and Yvonne, a 9-year-old girl also in Grade 4. Both girls are happy to be in Julia’s class. Minim says, “I enjoy learning with Ms. Julia. I want to be a teacher when I grow up, so I can help others learn too.” Yvonne adds, “I like my lessons because I learn new things every day. I look forward to coming to school.”

Thanks to these programmes, children at Katoba are not only learning how to read and write but are also gaining confidence. They are getting excited about school and thinking about their future. Their parents see the change too. They are happy because their children are now eager to learn and proud of their culture and stories.

The work of World Vision Zambia, through ZREAD and the Unlock Literacy model, is making a big difference. It is helping teachers become better and inspiring children to dream big. With good reading skills and a love for learning, these children are building a brighter future for themselves and their community.

Thanks to the support from World Vision Zambia, Katoba Primary School is changing lives, one story, one lesson, and one child at a time. The future looks brighter for these young learners.