FAWEZA Calls for Action on Education





...Advocacy Group Highlights Education Challenges and Gender Inequality

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, October 24, 2024 — The Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA) has called on the government to address critical issues in the education sector. In a statement, FAWEZA Executive Director Costern Kanchele praised recent strides in education, particularly the Free Education Policy introduced by the New Dawn government, which has removed financial barriers for millions of Zambian children.

“While the Free Education Policy has greatly enhanced access to quality education, particularly for girls, challenges remain,” said Kanchele.

FAWEZA expressed concern about a severe teacher shortage, with a deficit of over 100,000 teachers, overcrowded classrooms, and insufficient teaching materials, especially in rural areas.

“The high teacher-pupil ratio and lack of resources are affecting the quality of education,” Kanchele added.

The organization also noted high dropout rates among girls due to teenage pregnancies, child marriages, and school-related gender-based violence. These issues hinder many girls from completing their education, undermining efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Additionally, the ongoing hunger crisis, exacerbated by severe drought, has negatively impacted school attendance. FAWEZA urged the government and stakeholders to prioritize interventions to improve educational outcomes.

“Improving access to education is critical, but ensuring quality and retention is equally important. We call upon the government to address these pressing issues,” Kanchele stated.

Looking ahead, FAWEZA pledged continued advocacy for policies that promote gender equality in education and reiterated the need for inclusivity and sustainability to ensure every child in Zambia has the opportunity to succeed.

“As we celebrate Zambia’s 60 years of independence, FAWEZA is hopeful that by working together, we can build a future where every Zambian child is protected, respected, educated, and empowered,” Kanchele concluded.

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