CHARLES MUCHOLO
Canberra, Australia
AN AUSTRALIAN support group working in partnership with a Zambian charity has lauded Government for creating a conducive environment for cooperating partners to contribute to the nation’s education goals.
The organisation, which functions as an independent partner project under Health and Development Aid Abroad (HADA), an Australian Public Benevolent Society, works closely with A Future 4 Kids School, a grassroots educational initiative serving vulnerable children in Kaloko, Ndola.
Speaking during a courtesy call on Zambia’s High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand, Elias Munshya, Ken Spence, a member of Australian Support Board for A Future 4 Kids, expressed his admiration for Government’s progressive stance on education.
He commended the Zambian authorities for fostering an enabling atmosphere that has made it easier for his organisation to support the school.
Mr. Spence further expressed appreciation for President Hakainde Hichilema’s emphasis on education as a critical pillar of development. He noted that by prioritising access for both
the rich and poor, Government is helping build a more equal and just society.
“When a government makes education a priority, especially for the poor, it lays the groundwork for lasting transformation,” he said.
The commitment of A Future 4 Kids to Zambia’s educational development runs deep.
Established 16 years ago by a local teacher Joyce Chimbila, the school started humbly, with just eight students gathered in a small concrete shed in Kaloko, a disadvantaged community in the city of Ndola. Over the years, the initiative has grown into a well-known community school, now educating 260 students, from early childhood education to Grade 7.
“We don’t let go of our students once they finish Grade 7,” said Mrs. Chimbila.
“We continue to support them throughout secondary school and even into university or other forms of higher education.” This long-term commitment is what sets A Future 4 Kids apart. The school doesn’t just provide a few years of learning, it creates a pipeline of support, mentorship, and encouragement, guiding students as they build brighter futures.
Mrs. Chimbila says many of the children enrolled at A Future 4 Kids come from households that would otherwise have no means of affording consistent education. The school not only offers academic instruction but also provides meals, school supplies and emotional support, building a strong foundation for holistic child development.
“We believe that every child, no matter their background, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and succeed,” she said.
Mr Spence reaffirmed the Australian team’s commitment to the school’s mission. He said the Australian board of partners would continue to seek funding and partnerships to expand the school’s reach and impact.
“This is not a one-time project.
Our support is ongoing. We are always working to raise funds and find new partners who share our belief in education as a right, not a privilege,” Mr. Spence said.
He noted that while their efforts have so far borne fruit, the need is still great, and many more children could benefit from expanded infrastructure, teaching resources, and scholarships.
The Australian team used the meeting with Dr. Munshya as an opportunity to seek diplomatic support in connecting with more potential donors. “We would appreciate any help the high commission can offer in helping us raise awareness among Australian donors,” he said. “A small contribution here can make a lifechanging difference there.”
Dr Munshya warmly welcomed the A Future 4 Kids team to the Zambian High Commission in Canberra. He praised their continued dedication and underlined the Zambian Government’s own efforts to achieve universal free education.
“What your organisation is doing is in harmony with our national goals,” he said. “The Zambian Government is fully committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of where they are born or how much their parents earn, has access to quality education.”
Dr. Munshya also reiterated that it is Government policy to close all gaps that may hinder educational access and to create an open, stable and attractive environment for partners like A Future 4 Kids to operate effectively.
“We want to assure you that Zambia welcomes partners who are genuine and committed to uplifting our communities,” he said. “Your contribution is deeply valued, and we will do our part to ensure your continued success.”
The High Commissioner also pledged to use his office to promote the work of the A Future 4 Kids School and help facilitate
further engagement with potential Australian supporters.
“I will not hesitate to speak to others about the great work you’re doing,” he said. “When education wins, the entire country wins.”
The story of A Future 4 Kids is one of resilience, vision, and cross-border collaboration. From its modest beginnings in a concrete shed to its current position as a life-changing educational hub, the school stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities, charities and governments work together.
For the children of Kaloko, the school is more than a place of learning—it is a symbol of hope and opportunity. And for its Australian supporters, it is a testament to the belief that real change begins with small steps, sustained by consistent commitment and shared purpose.
As Zambia continues to roll out its free education policy, partnerships like these will be crucial in filling the gaps and reaching the country’s most vulnerable children. And with groups like A Future 4 Kids
leading the way, the dream of education for all becomes a little closer to reality each day.
The author is first secretary – press and public relations at the Zambia High Commission to Australia and New Zealand.