Help Provide Education to 300 Children in Need

1. Introduction

The Charity Centre for Children and Youth Development (CCCYD) is implementing the Girls STEM Education Initiative, a program designed to provide Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education to 500 girls in Solwezi District. This initiative aims to equip girls with critical skills in STEM fields, addressing gender disparities in education and career opportunities.

Alongside our primary education support for 200 children, we are committed to offering quality STEM education to both girls and boys to foster inclusivity and equal learning opportunities.

2. Program Implementation

2.1. STEM Training for Girls

Currently, 20 girls are undergoing specialized STEM training. The curriculum focuses on:

Basic computer programming 

engineering concepts

Mathematics and problem-solving skills

Science experiments and practical applications

The sessions are interactive, enabling girls to engage in hands-on activities that enhance their technical understanding and critical thinking.

2.2. Mixed STEM Training for Boys and Girls

In addition to the all-girls group, a mixed group of 10 girls and 10 boys is also undergoing STEM training. The mixed-gender approach promotes collaboration, teamwork, and shared learning experiences. The topics covered include:

Introduction to technology and digital skills

Innovation and entrepreneurship in STEM

This training is designed to ensure that both boys and girls have equal exposure to STEM opportunities while fostering an inclusive learning environment.

3. Progress and Achievements

Successfully enrolled 40 students (30 girls and 10 boys) in the first phase of STEM training.

Conducted hands-on training sessions, equipping learners with foundational STEM skills.

Increased interest and confidence in STEM subjects among the participating students.

Strengthened gender-inclusive education by integrating boys into the program while maintaining a strong focus on empowering girls.

4. Challenges

Limited resources such as aboratory equipment and laboratory room which affect the learning process.

Need for a dedicated STEM training facility to accommodate the growing number of students.

5. Future Plans and Recommendations

Expand STEM training to additional girls and boys, ensuring that more students benefit from the program.

Secure additional funding to purchase laboratory tools, and learning materials.

Strengthen partnerships with technology firms and educational institutions for mentorship and resource support.

Develop a dedicated STEM Education Centre to provide a conducive learning environment for students.

6. Conclusion

The Girls STEM Education Initiative is making significant strides in empowering girls through technology and innovation. By equipping them with STEM knowledge, we are bridging the gender gap in science and technology while fostering a culture of learning and discovery.

We extend our gratitude to the Australian Governmen throgh their Embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe t for the initial funding, Tech for Change for the STEM,  and GlobalGiving for its support in transforming education for girls and boys in Zambia. We look forward to continued collaboration to expand and enhance this life-changing initiative.

1. Introduction

The Charity Centre for Children and Youth Development (CCCYD) remains steadfast in its mission to support orphans and vulnerable children in Solwezi through education and mentorship programs. Recognizing that education is a fundamental right and a crucial pathway out of poverty, CCCYD has designed programs aimed at empowering these young individuals to secure a brighter future.

This report highlights the recent achievements of CCCYD, with a particular focus on the academic milestones of students supported by the Centre. Notably, on October 31, 2024, a significant cohort of 34 pupils from Fortune School of Excellence completed their final grade examination, marking a milestone in their educational journey and their readiness to proceed to grade eight in 2025.

2. Educational Support Program

The educational support provided by CCCYD targets children who face immense barriers to education due to socio-economic challenges. Through partnerships, scholarships, and tailored learning support, the Centre assists students in accessing quality education and securing the resources necessary for their academic success. This includes:

• Tuition Sponsorships: Covering school fees for pupils from underprivileged backgrounds.
• Provision of Learning Materials: Ensuring students have access to textbooks, uniforms, and other essential school supplies.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Engaging experienced mentors to provide academic and personal support.

3. Mentorship and Personal Development Initiatives

CCCYD integrates mentorship into its programs, recognizing that holistic development is essential for the success of vulnerable children. These mentorship initiatives are designed to:

• Build confidence and self-esteem.
• Instill a sense of responsibility and resilience.
• Prepare students for future educational and career opportunities.

By connecting students with mentors, CCCYD provides them with role models who encourage their academic, social, and emotional growth.

4. Milestone Achieved: Grade Seven Completion

On October 31, 2024, 34 pupils at Fortune School of Excellence completed their final grade seven examinations. These students, who have been under CCCYD’s support, now stand ready to advance to grade eight in 2025. This achievement underscores CCCYD’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that vulnerable children in Solwezi are given opportunities to progress through the education system and to envision a future filled with potential.

5. Looking Ahead

CCCYD is committed to expanding its support as these students transition into grade eight. Plans for 2025 include:

• Expanding mentorship programs to cover life skills training.
• Increasing academic support to aid students in their transition to secondary education.
• Engaging more community stakeholders to secure resources and partnerships for sustained educational support.

6. Conclusion

The success of the 34 pupils from Fortune School of Excellence is a testament to the impact of CCCYD’s dedication to empowering vulnerable children in Solwezi. By fostering an environment where education and mentorship thrive, CCCYD continues to fulfill its mission of uplifting disadvantaged children, providing them with the tools needed to pursue a promising future.

The Charity Centre for Children and Youth Development remains dedicated to its core values and mission, reaffirming its commitment to creating lasting change in the lives of orphans and vulnerable children in Solwezi.