Last week 40 young mothers graduated from Lubuto's Family Literacy Program--proudly receiving certificates, cheered on by family and friends.
All these young mothers completed a four-month English-language literacy curriculum. Graduation from this program was based not only on consistent participation, but also assessments built into the curriculum. A unique aspect of the Family Literacy Program is to not only improve participants' reading and writing, and help them re-enter school—but to also provide opportunities to learn marketable skills.
Those who attended more than 70% of the literacy program were given the opportunity to participate in a skills training program conducted in partnership with the Dzithandizeni Trust Trades School in Lusaka. The 25 graduates from the Family Literacy Program are now receiving income-generating skills training to sustain and support their families. Areas of focus include food production, hospitality, tailoring and designing and computer studies.
Happy outcomes for the whole family
Many of these girls and their families have given glowing reviews for the program and the impact it has already had and will have on their lives. Hannah, one of the graduates, was mocked and lost many friends when she became pregnant. She had lost hope and did not see a future for herself. Hannah's mother said that her daughter is now well-respected in the community after completing the skills training program. She now has much more self-esteem and is convinced that she can follow her dreams.
Eva--a divorced mother of two-was shy and never spoke her mind before coming to the Lubuto Model Library. After taking part in the Family Literacy Program, she says she “can stand here now and address people with so much confidence." Although Eva has had a difficult life, she was fully committed to bettering herself. She sometimes walks 14 kilometers to access the skills training. Eva’s remarkable drive ensured her successful completion of the Family Literacy Program. She is optimistic that she will be able to provide for her family once she is done with skills training at Dzithandizeni.
Friends and family members of the participants expressed excitement and eagerness to take part in the program themselves in the future.
Volunteer of the Month
The Volunteer of the Month is Everret Chongo, our wonderful intern who was so helpful in our cataloging efforts. Everret is a fourth-year student at the University of Zambia studying Library Information Science and Public Administration. She was particularly taken by the breadth of books available through Lubuto library collections. Being a part of the cataloging team was exciting for Everret, as she got to put what she had learned in school into practice. She hopes to remain involved with Lubuto in the future. We are so grateful for all her hard work!
Support Lubuto while you shop
Did you know that you can support us with every purchase you make on Amazon? Please go to https://smile.amazon.com/ and select Lubuto Library Partners as your charity. It doesn't cost you anything, but Amazon will donate part of the profits to Lubuto!
