Child Protection

In many parts of rural Zambia, going to school once came with quiet struggles that often went unseen. For countless children, learning meant carrying books in their hands without a school bag, and often without enough pens or notebooks to fully participate in class.

During the rainy season, these challenges became even more severe. Without proper school bags, children’s books would often get soaked on their long journeys to school, leaving them unable to complete assignments or follow lessons effectively.

These barriers impacted children’s confidence, dignity, and motivation to stay in school.

Today, that story is changing.

ChildFund, through its five local partners, Chongwe, Lwangwa, Mumbwa, Kafue and Lusaka development agencies, has been distributing education kits to children.  Each kit includes a school bag, exercise books, pens, pencils, a ruler, and an eraser, simple yet essential tools that are making a difference in children’s lives.

For 15-year-old Susan, a Grade 7 learner at Mwavi Primary School in Luangwa district, receiving an education kit has transformed her school experience.

“Before, I used to feel shy because I didn’t have the things I needed for school,” Susan shares. “Now I have my own school bag, books, and pens. I feel confident, and I can focus on my lessons. I want to pass my exams and go to secondary school.”

Her experience reflects a broader shift happening in classrooms across Luangwa.

Teachers are also seeing the change firsthand. Felicity, a teacher at Mwavi Primary School, explains how access to basic learning materials is improving both participation and performance.

“When children have the materials they need, they are more engaged and eager to learn,” she says. “We have seen improved participation in class, better handwriting, and more completed assignments. These kits are give children a sense of dignity and equal opportunity.”

For children like Edson, the impact is deeply personal:

“Now I go to school confidently because no one can laugh at me. I have my own school bag, books and pens.”

At a broader level, ChildFund’s Education Manager, Tashar Imasiku, emphasizes that addressing these basic needs is critical to improving education outcomes.

“Access to learning materials is fundamental to a child’s success in school. When children are equipped with the right tools, we remove barriers to participation and create an environment where they can thrive. These education kits are all about restoring dignity, improving retention, and giving every child a fair chance to succeed.”

More than 15,000 education kits have been distributed, reaching over 20,210 learners across ChildFund-supported communities in 21 districts