VVOB – education for development and Education Above All Foundation, in an exciting new partnership with the Zambian Ministry of Education, are set to expand the horizon of education access in Zambia through the Digital School Project, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) for universal quality education. This 30-month initiative, commencing in January 2024, will support the ministry to reach over 3,500 out-of-school adolescents in Zambia, enabling them to access education, demonstrating the power of partnerships in driving positive change.
In Zambia, nearly 200,000 adolescents find themselves out of school, grappling with barriers to education such as poverty, gender disparities, and distance to schools, leading to a significant number of adolescents missing out on vital certifications. While existing systems such as Open Learning Centres under the Directorate of Open and Distance Education, offer some relief, their reach is limited, focusing primarily on preparing learners for Grade 9 examinations leaving out a considerable group, predominantly girls, who are without Grade 7 certification.
Bridging Gaps in Education
To address this gap, the Digital School Project is developing and piloting an accelerated education programme with the aim of preparing an estimated 3,500 out-of-school adolescents in two districts of Lusaka province (Kafue and Lusaka) and one district in the adjacent Central Province (Chibombo) for the Grade 7 examinations. It will employ a technology-enabled model, offering a lifeline to 13-18-year-olds for accelerated preparation toward the exams they need to attain to re-enter education.
The project comprises three components: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) Bootcamps, a Digital Online Learning Package, and mock examinations:
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Leveraging our Catch-Up expertise, VVOB is driving the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Bootcamp using the Teaching at the Right Level methodology to intensively improve foundational skills crucial for out-of-school adolescents.
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The Digital Online Learning Package, an initiative using tablets, offers a combination of structured sessions and self-paced learning for out-of-school adolescents, many of whom may be young mothers, ensuring flexibility and learner-centeredness.
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Mock exams, designed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, will simulate Grade 7 exams, offering out-of-school adolescents’ vital preparation and experience, aligning with educational standards.
Harnessing Global Experience
Education Above All Foundation's extensive global experience in promoting access to education, coupled with VVOB's proven track record in impactful educational initiatives, harnesses a collective wealth of knowledge, resources, and a shared passion for transformative education. Supported by, and in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the project offers promise for scalability, addressing a significant challenge and aligning with the existing education system.
The project is committed to continuous improvement through data-driven insights. The collaboration between VVOB, Education Above All Foundation, and the Ministry of Education will facilitate the collection of valuable data on student enrolment, progression, assessment, and completion. A robust monitoring and evaluation framework will ensure that the project remains responsive to the evolving needs of learners as well as set a precedent for evidence-based educational interventions, fostering a culture of adaptability and improvement.
Commitment to Education Equity
The project will kick off on Thursday, 18 January 2024, presented by the Minister of Education, Honourable Douglas Syakalima during a launch event, celebrating the tangible impact that collaborative efforts can have on transforming opportunities for Zambia's youth.
Sarah Wragg, Head of Education Innovation at Education Above All Foundation’s Innovation Development Programme expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration stating: "It is an honour to join forces with VVOB and the Ministry of Education in addressing unique challenges faced by out of school adolescents in Zambia. Education Above All Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a world where every child in Zambia can learn. Through providing access to quality education, this initiative signifies a crucial step towards realising Zambia's Vision 2030, shaping a brighter future for all.”
As we embark on this transformative journey to reach out-of-school adolescents, VVOB and Education Above All Foundation stand united in our commitment to creating a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, backed by the tangible results of past collaborations that have shaped educational initiatives in Zambia.
