•SOME of the adult learners under the Konkola Copper Mines-sponsored adult literacy programme in Chililabombwe in a classroom.

By MOFFAT CHAZINGWA –

MORE than 100 learners under the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM)-supported adult literacy programme in Chililabombwe, who in 2014 defied all odds when they enrolled in school, are set to sit for grade seven examinations this year.
The grade seven examination candidates are part of the 800 learners under the KCM Adult Literacy Programme in Chililabombwe.
The programme has leaped to higher heights barely a year after being launched.
KCM communications and public relations manager Shapi Shachinda said the programme was introduced as part of Zambia’s 50th independence anniversary.
It is meant to provide basic reading and writing skills to adults who never attended formal education.
Mr Shacinda said the programme had attracted mainly marketers, aged between 35 and 65 years, who will be integrated into grade eight next year if they pass the grade seven examinations.
Adult literacy coordinator for Chililabombwe, Gertrude Mulonga expressed excitement at the overwhelming response from the community, as many people begin to see the benefits of adult literacy.
Ms Mulonga said the adult literacy programme has generated interest among scores of adults in the district who have resolved to devote their time and energy to learning.
“Some mothers are coming along with their children who are not performing well in regular schools to the adult literacy classes so that they can improve their reading and writing skills.
“We appreciate KCM for providing teaching aids and tents for offices in the peri-urban areas,” said Ms Mulonga, who sees the programme as real economic empowerment for the beneficiaries.
Christina Chishala, a 63-year-old marketeer at Mine Market in Chililabombwe, is enthusiastic about the benefits she is reaping in her business after knowing how to read and write.
“Since I started the lessons last year, I have learnt so much that my business has improved because I now give the correct change to customers.
“I have gained a lot of knowledge and so I have enrolled to write my grade seven examinations,” Ms Chishala said.
Anna Chola, 56, another marketer, said she was encouraged to join the adult literacy school after watching elderly women speaking English in a Nigerian movie.
“After writing the exams this year, I want to further my education and go all the way up to grade 12,” said Ms Chola, who views this as a life-time opportunity one cannot afford to miss.
KCM community relations manager Brian Siatubi said the programme had exceeded initial expectations.
“It is good that the Ministry of Education has allowed the learners to sit for the grade seven exams.
“This is a glimmer of hope for those who never had a chance to attain this level of education,” Mr Siatubi said.
The programme, launched in July 2014 in partnership with the Chililabombwe District Education Board, initially targeted 520 students at 10 learning centres.