In many rural schools across Zambia, a significant challenge persists: teachers often struggle to teach literacy in lower grades effectively. Despite the critical importance of developing strong reading and writing skills early on, many classrooms are marked by limited resources, inadequate training, and a focus on rote learning rather than holistic literacy development. As a result, many children enter upper primary school with weak foundational skills, hampering their overall academic progress and confidence.

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.

World Vision is improving education of children through construction of modern classroom blocks

This article highlights a literacy initiative by World Vision DRC, which celebrated the achievements of 100 students in Maluku who showed remarkable progress in reading. Through the "Open Literacy 2.0" program, 300 students from 35 primary schools participated in a reading competition, resulting in a significant improvement in comprehension skills. The award ceremony, attended by educators, parents, and students, featured reading demonstrations and heartfelt testimonials from children and parents. The event also recognized the dedication of teachers who implemented the new teaching strategies, contributing to a broader effort to combat illiteracy in the region.

World Vision Education in Emergencies and Protracted Crisis Framework 2025

Bombi’s early years were defined by scarcity and silence. His family, struggling with unemployment and poverty, survived by growing vegetables around their home—barely enough to feed themselves. School seemed a distant luxury, and Bombi was a shy, quiet child who rarely spoke or engaged with others. "Physically and mentally, I experienced many ups and downs," he recalls.

Mary Watson, once a subsistence farmer from Sabao village, Nsanje district, now earns a better living through tailoring and livestock farming. Watson awes all this to World Vision’s Savings for Transformation (S4T) programme she was enrolled into. Trained in financial literacy and business management, Mary and her S4T group manage savings, lending, and investments, boosting their economic growth.

In Zinder, artistic training is transforming the lives of 50 children, giving them confidence, creativity, and hope thanks to the commitment of World Vision Niger.