World Sight Day Commemoration in Mazabuka

World Sight Day, observed annually, is a global event focused on raising awareness about blindness and vision impairment. This year's theme, 'Love Your Eyes,' encourages individuals to prioritize their eye health and promotes accessible eye care for all. One Sight Zambia and Zambia Open Community Schools (ZOCS) joined the global community in commemorating this important day with a special event held at Kalama Primary & Secondary School in Mazabuka district.

The World Sight Day event at Kalama School was a resounding success, bringing together leaners, teachers, community leaders, and key stakeholders. The celebration aimed to educate attendees about preventable blindness and the importance of regular eye check-ups.

The event featured interactive sessions, eye screenings, and informative talks delivered by eye care professionals. Learners actively participated in demonstrations on proper eye care practices, emphasizing the simple steps they can take to protect their vision.

The presence of distinguished guests, including the District Commissioner and the DEBS (District Education Board Secretary) of Mazabuka, underscored the significance of the event and the commitment of local authorities to supporting eye health initiatives. Their participation highlighted the collaborative effort required to address vision impairment effectively within the community.

The theme 'Love Your Eyes' serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize eye health in our daily lives. Simple steps, such as regular eye check-ups, wearing sunglasses to protect from UV rays, and maintaining a healthy diet, can significantly impact our vision. By raising awareness and promoting accessible eye care, we can work towards a future where preventable blindness is a thing of the past.

Supporting School Feeding on the Copperbelt

Zambia Open Community Schools (ZOCS), in partnership with ShopRite, Promex, and other dedicated organizations, is thrilled to announce the launch of its second soup kitchen truck on the Copperbelt. This initiative aims to provide vital nutritional support to over 1,000 children daily, ensuring they have the energy and focus needed to thrive in their education.

The program will run from October 7th, 2025, to October 6th, 2026, offering a consistent source of nourishment throughout the school year.

This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between the private sector, civil society, and local communities. ShopRite and Promex have generously contributed resources and expertise, while ZOCS provides on-the-ground coordination and community engagement. The success of this soup kitchen truck hinges on this strong partnership.

The school feeding initiative is more than just providing a meal; it is about ensuring equity, dignity, and opportunity for every child. We believe that every child deserves the chance to learn with a full stomach and a focused mind.

By providing free soup and bread, we aim to:

• Reduce hunger and malnutrition among school children.

• Improve school attendance and concentration.

• Create a more equitable learning environment.

• Empower children to reach their full potential.

This second soup kitchen truck represents a significant step forward in our efforts to support the children of the Copperbelt. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our partners and the dedication of our volunteers. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these children.

ZOCS and its partners are committed to expanding the reach and impact of the school feeding program. We are actively seeking additional support and collaborations to ensure that every child in need has access to nutritious meals and a quality education. Join us in our mission to create a brighter future for the children of Zambia!

Building a Strong Foundation for Early Learning

Mikuta Community School has undergone a remarkable transformation, moving from a situation where there was no dedicated classroom for Early Childhood Education (ECE) to proudly having one, built through the School Readiness Initiative’s community model of construction. Before this milestone, young learners had to make do with temporary or unsuitable spaces, which limited their comfort, safety, and ability to fully participate in early learning activities. Today, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the school, parents, and the community, the children now learn in a permanent, well-structured ECE classroom designed to meet their developmental needs.

This new structure offers multiple benefits. It provides a safe and weather-resistant learning environment, protecting children from harsh sun, wind, and rain. The spacious layout allows for age-appropriate play and learning materials, encouraging active, engaging, and interactive lessons. Its permanence means the school can plan and deliver a consistent ECE program without the disruptions caused by inadequate facilities. Beyond improving learning conditions, the round hut has also boosted enrolment, as parents are more motivated to send their children to a well-equipped, secure environment. Through the School Readiness Initiative, Mikuta Community School has not only gained a building but has also strengthened the foundation for quality early education in the community.