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Teachers' Housing Project

Experience
Computer Science, Mathematics, Business Studies
High Quality
Certified and Licensed Teachers
Housing
An Investment in the Future
Housing for Educators
The Teachers' Housing Project is a cornerstone of EBZEF’s efforts to improve education in Lumwana West, Zambia. Recognizing that quality education depends not only on classrooms and resources but also on the well-being of teachers, EBZEF partnered with the community to address the critical need for safe, reliable housing for educators.
Village-Constructed Teacher's House
First Teacher's House
Teachers' Duplex Completed
Secondary Teacher Moves into Housing
Headmaster's House
Beths Lady Priscovia in Second Teachers' House
How the Need for Teacher Housing Became Apparent
As Lumwana West's educational infrastructure grew, the lack of adequate teacher housing became a significant barrier to attracting and retaining qualified teachers. Educators often faced long commutes or lived in inadequate, overcrowded, and unsafe conditions, which affected their ability to provide consistent, high-quality instruction. In 2020, the urgency of the situation was highlighted by Mr. Njolomba, who stated: “The housing situation at Lumwana West Secondary School is worrying. Only seven out of fourteen teachers are accommodated. The rest are squatting in deplorable rental structures in the village.” Additionally, quality housing is required by the Zambia Ministry of Education to assign teachers to remote, rural areas like Lumwana West. Without proper housing, the community faced challenges in attracting and retaining qualified educators. The local community made efforts to address this crisis, including collecting 40 Kwacha ($1.25) per family to fund self-help staff accommodations. Unfortunately, government restrictions halted these contributions, leaving housing projects incomplete and teachers without proper shelter.
EBZEF's Response to the Housing Crisis
EBZEF responded to this urgent need by partnering with the community to fund the construction of teacher housing. Their efforts include: • In 2020, a successful GlobalGiving campaign raised $3,000 to complete a partially built structure that had stalled due to funding shortages. • EBZEF set a goal to construct 4 double houses (at $4,500 each) to accommodate 8 single teachers and 6 single houses (at $13,500 each) for married teachers with families. • By December 2020, EBZEF had funded housing for 6 teachers, with the first two apartments occupied by: o Madam Juliet Fweneti (Computer Science/Business Studies) o Mr. David Muzeya (Mathematics) • A second duplex was nearing completion, and funding was secured for a third, with the goal of housing 6 teachers in total. Each duplex cost $5,300. • In 2021, EBZEF funded the construction of a Headmaster’s House at a cost of $12,050, ensuring strong leadership and administrative stability within the school. • By 2022, EBZEF had supported the construction of six houses serving as homes for nine teachers. Plans were also in place to build a family house for $15,000, maximizing the impact by housing both parents when they are educators: “Both parents are teachers for more ‘bang for our buck!’” — Larry Basic School Headmistress Ireen Sandu lives in the first of two EBZEF/World Vision Zambia-built teachers' houses. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “Thanks to EBZEF for this wonderful home. It is really amazing to stay in such a beautiful house with a good environment inside. Previously I used to climb anthills to answer the call of nature, but now it is just inside. EBZEF has just done wonders in this community. Though no amount of words can be used to appreciate this, we thank you very much. EBZEF, we love and trust you. As the Lumwana community, we will always treasure you and promise you that we will work tirelessly to fulfill the dream of our sister and friend Beth. May the almighty God bless you abundantly.”
Lumwana West Celebrates World Teachers' Day
Current Status and Impact
  • The impact of EBZEF's housing project has been profound: • Teacher retention has improved significantly, as educators now have safe, reliable housing close to their schools. • Teachers like Mr. Lukama, who previously had to squat in makeshift accommodations, now have the opportunity to live with dignity and even bring their families to Lumwana West. • The construction of the Headmaster’s House has strengthened school leadership, fostering a more stable and effective learning environment. • The community remains actively involved in the maintenance and sustainability of these housing projects, reflecting a strong sense of ownership and pride.
A Foundation for Educational Excellence
The Teachers' Housing Project is more than just bricks and mortar—it is an investment in the future of Lumwana West. By ensuring that teachers have a safe place to call home, EBZEF is helping to create an environment where educators can thrive, and students can achieve their full potential. Through continued support and collaboration, this project will remain a vital part of the community's educational success for generations to come.
Interior of Teacher's House
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