During the first three months of 2016 Zambezi Sawmills School has been transformed. We were able to raise $3,881.27, $1,269.50 through GlobalGiving, which was enough to complete the borehole and water pump which in turn has led to their feeding garden to start really thriving. They now grow enough food to ensure that all the children can be supplied with a nutritious meal every day.
We were also able to finish building the classroom in time for the end of the first school term. Over the school holidays they are strengthening the concrete on the floor, and it will be completely ready for the children to start learning in from the first day of the second term. This classroom is vital in creating more learning space so that the children have a more suitable space for their lessons.
Vitally it gives the school the additional space needed to accommodate Grades 8 and 9 (currently they teach Grades 1-7) which is part of the criteria for becoming a government school. Once they are eligible for funding from the government they will able to educate using government trained teachers who get paid reasonable monthly wages. They will receive resources for the children and no longer have to rely on volunteers and donations for money, teaching staff, and learning materials. This grants each child their right for a quality education to provide them with opportunities for success when they are older.
Quality education is the biggest weapon we have against poverty and inequality. This classroom is a big step towards better education for the 500+ children currently attending Zambezi Sawmills School and for the many thousands of children who will attend in the future.
The last step of the school improvement is to build the teachers house. This will add extra security and a small income to the school.
On behalf of all the children, present and future, and their families we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in raising the money for the school improvement. You have made a bigger difference in the lives of these children and the community than you will ever realize and we are so grateful for your kindness and support.
To help support and finish this project, visit our fundraising page on GlobalGiving