Nazarene Community School, located in Chibombo District, Zambia, serves as a center of education for the local community. However, the school faces significant challenges that hinder its ability to provide quality education to its pupils. With inadequate infrastructure, limited access to clean water, and insufficient sanitation facilities, the learning environment at the school is compromised, impacting both the academic success and overall well-being of the pupils.
In response to these challenges, Ukupela Foundation e.V. proposes a project to support Nazarene Community School in addressing its most pressing needs. The project aims to improve the school’s infrastructure and enhance access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
Information provided by Mr. Zulu, the Head Teacher of Nazarene Community School, sheds light on the school’s history and ongoing efforts to secure resources for its development. Despite receiving support from the community and government, the school faces challenges in mobilising resources for construction materials and essential furniture such as desks and chairs.
Key components of the project include the construction of new classrooms and facilities, provision of essential furniture and equipment, installation of safe drinking water sources, and implementation of hygiene and sanitation programs. Additionally, the project will engage with teachers, students, parents, and community members to ensure the sustainability and success of interventions.
By addressing these critical issues, the project seeks to create a safe, supportive, and conducive learning environment for the students at Nazarene Community School. Through collaborative efforts and strategic investments, we can make a tangible difference in students’ lives and contribute to the overall development of the Chibombo District community.
Report by Florence Gasse. April 2025.
I visited Nazarene Community School on Friday 4th of April, accompanied by a trusted Ukupela construction partner. I had the privilege of introducing myself to the Parent Teacher Association, local headmen, and the chiefs’ representatives.
We were impressed and motivated to see the support from the community. The foundation was dug and done with their help. As you read this the community is at the site every single day helping our contractors.
Together with the contractor and Mr. Nkonde (who helped renovate Liteta Hospital, one of our large projects before Nazarene School), we assessed the site and agreed to begin construction on the first phase of the school. The full design includes three classrooms, three storage rooms, a strong room, two offices, two entrance lobbies, a corridor, and a veranda. (Please refer to the attached floor plans.)
Given the scale of the building and with the government committing to continue the project, Ukupela decided to begin with one classroom, two storage rooms, and an office, which lies within our financial resources. Construction began on Monday 7th of April, and is progressing steadily.
On Wednesday 9th of April I was accompanied by the district commissioner and his entourage to the school. He spoke a few words of encouragement and also promised to provide our constructor with labour resources.
This day was wonderful.
The teachers were thrilled, and the parents and children are incredibly grateful. They couldn’t stop thanking Ukupela and all those who contributed to this meaningful cause. Witnessing their joy and seeing the challenging conditions in which the children are currently learning was both heartwarming and humbling.
The borehole and water supply remain fully operational. In fact, having water on site has greatly supported the construction process. It has not only served the school community but also eliminated the need to fetch water from nearby villages, saving time and effort.
Please watch the video to see footage of Caroline’s visit in 2024 and my visit in April 2025. Together we are changing lives, and you have no idea how much you’re actually impacting an entire community in a Zambia.
On behalf of the Ukupela team: THANK YOU. Your support is making a real, lasting difference.
