LIGHTHOUSE PROJECTS IN ZAMBIA
One of our lighthouse projects in Zambia is St. Francis and Clare Secondary School located in Ngwerere, a community on the outskirts of Lusaka, the capital city. The school successfully opened its doors in 2019 and now offers top-quality education to around 750 boys and girls. This was made possible because of the 100,000 euros raised by the Africa Runners as well as additional support by the Umckaloabo Foundation and other sponsors such as the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES
The children at St. Francis and Clare Secondary School not only appreciate the fact that their school has such high rankings; they also benefit from the many extracurricular activities available to them. In addition to Scouts troops, different environmental clubs and after-school groups, students interested in STEM can also take part in a student research competition in the field of robotics and IT. They have great prospects in terms of winning prizes this year!
BECOME A SPONSOR – PROVIDE A BETTER FUTURE
We created a scholarship program so that young people from very poor families also have the opportunity of attending St. Francis and Clare Secondary School. Thanks to the generosity of the people who contribute to scholarship funds, 100 students whose parents could not afford tuition are able to attend school anyway.
Finishing school at St. Francis and Clare Secondary School lets graduates go on to start vocational training or university studies. Thanks to our work with our dedicated project partner Franciscan nun Loice Kashangura, a model project was developed where several hundred students have discovered a perspective for their future.
READY TO START SCHOOL
In early 2024, Sister Loice also opened St. Francis Preschool in Lusaka – in part through the help of the Umckaloabo Foundation – which helps prepare 100 children to start school.
Since there are two elementary-school classes in the same building, children who finish preschool can stay right there on site to continue their education.
CHANCES ON THE JOB MARKET
With the funds of over 100,000 euros raised by the 2022 Africa Runners, we were able to support Makululu Combined Secondary School in Kabwe near Lusaka as well in creating new classrooms and teaching facilities.
In the meantime, a total of 1,200 students have been able to complete a secondary-school degree with a technical focus, and that significantly increases their chances on the job market.