A beacon of hope now stands tall in Miswa School – a brand new classroom block that is already transforming the future of local children.
Education is often termed “the key to success” and rightly so. Yet for many children in communities across Zambia, accessing quality education remains a challenge due to inadequate infrastructure.
This was the reality for Miswa Community School in Chisamba, where children once learned while seated on bricks in crumbling structures.
The children and volunteer teachers alike demonstrated extraordinary resilience, continuing to learn and teach despite challenging classroom conditions. The volunteer teachers remained committed to supporting their pupils, driven by the community’s shared belief in the power of education.
A new story is unfolding in Miswa
A newly built classroom block now stands at the heart of Miswa Community School. The block includes three spacious classrooms, a library, a staffroom and a Headteacher’s office – all helping to provide safe, welcoming spaces where children can learn. This development marks a significant step forward in the quality of education at the school.
As a result of the new facility, the school has welcomed a new Headteacher, Mr. John Nkandu Mumba, who has already brought fresh energy and leadership. He has introduced a new school uniform to help foster identity and belonging among learners. Mr Mumba shared:
“I am happy to be here and to be part of this new journey. The children are excited and committed to taking care of the new school. This is a great beginning for Miswa, and we hope the government will send more teachers to support this growing community.”
Mr Mumba standing alongside grade 6 and 7 Miswa pupils
More children access education
When we first began working at Miswa, the school had 205 pupils. Following the completion of the new school building, parents have enrolled children who were previously out of school. As a result, pupil numbers have risen to 310 as of January 2026.
The children’s pride is evident. They take the time to beautify their surroundings by planting trees, tending to flowers and landscaping the school grounds. Their sense of ownership is inspiring.
Miswa pupils planting flowers at their new school
We caught up with one of the volunteer teachers Mr Haward Hamaamba, who is supporting Headteacher Mr Mumba in coordinating pupils as they care for the school grounds.
Reflecting on the transformation Mr Hamaamba said:
“I remember your early visits to the old school. I always prayed that the plans we discussed would come to pass. Standing here today in a brand‑new building where our children can learn, I couldn’t be happier. There is hope for Miswa.”
Mr Hamaamba with pupils on the veranda of the classroom block.
