How Citizen Voice and Action Transformed Masamba Day Secondary School in Mbala district

For years, pupils at Masamba Day Secondary School in Mbala District faced significant challenges in their pursuit of education. Overcrowded classrooms, a lack of proper sanitation facilities, and an inadequate water supply made learning difficult. However, through the persistent efforts of the Citizen Voice and Action (CVA) Committee, the school now boasts a newly constructed 1x3 classroom block, an ablution block, and a mechanized water system—funded through the Ministry of Education and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

For 17-year-old Gladys, a Grade 12 pupil at the school, the transformation has been life-changing.

"Before, learning was difficult. We had to squeeze into small classrooms, and there was no clean water. Girls, especially, faced challenges because there were no proper toilets. Now, with the new infrastructure, we have enough space to learn, clean water to drink, and proper sanitation. I feel motivated to work hard and pass my exams," she says with a smile.

The change did not happen overnight. The CVA Committee, a community-led advocacy group, worked tirelessly to engage local leaders and government officials, highlighting the urgent need for better learning conditions. Their lobbying efforts led to the allocation of resources, proving the power of collective community action.

Mr. Osward Chanda, the headteacher of Masamba Day Secondary School, is equally grateful.

"This is a game-changer for our school. The new classroom block has decongested learning spaces, and the ablution block has improved sanitation, which is crucial for the health of our pupils. The mechanized water system means that our students no longer have to leave school to fetch water from distant sources. We thank the CVA Committee for ensuring that our concerns were heard," he says.

Wilfred Chilala, the District Education Board Secretary, also acknowledged the crucial role played by the CVA Committee in improving the school’s infrastructure.

"The Citizen Voice and Action model has empowered communities to advocate for better services, and Masamba Day Secondary School is a great example of its success. Through their efforts, we have seen real change that will positively impact learners for years to come. This is what happens when communities and government work together," he said.

Elijah Mazimba, the CVA Chairperson for Masamba community, emphasized that the project’s success is a result of determined community engagement.

"As community members, we saw the struggles our children were facing. We knew that if we did not act, nothing would change. We engaged with the local authorities and consistently pushed for these developments. Today, we are seeing the fruits of our efforts, and this school is now a place where learning is truly happening," he said.

Louis Malubila, the CVA Coordinator, stressed that despite transitioning from the area, the CVA group has remained committed to advocating for development in their communities.

"Even after moving on from direct involvement in Masamba, the CVA group continues to push for improvements in schools, health services, and other public services. We believe that sustained advocacy is key to long-term development, and we will not stop until every community gets the services they deserve," Malubila explained.

With the improved infrastructure, enrollment at the school has increased, and both teachers and pupils now have a conducive environment for quality education. The success of the CVA Committee’s efforts at Masamba Day Secondary School is a testament to what happens when communities take action to demand better services.

As Gladys prepares for her final exams, she is filled with hope-hope for a brighter future, not just for herself, but for all the children who will come after her.

"This school is now a place where dreams can come true," she says.