EBZEF Preschool Project
Planting the Seeds of Learning
The story of the EBZEF preschool project is one of hope, growth, and transformation. Nestled in Lumwana West, Zambia, this initiative has become a beacon of early childhood education, changing the lives of young learners and their families. The adventure began in 2010, when EBZEF, with the help of Dianah Masumbah—a Beth’s Girl graduate—and a grant from the Columbia River Peace Corps Association, took its first steps toward creating a preschool.
Tamara Weiss, a doctoral candidate at the University of Minnesota in Early Childhood Development, helped to establish a curriculum for the pre-school, initiated and supported by EBZEF.
Classes were originally held in the Elizabeth Bowers Memorial Library, a cherished community resource. However, the growing number of enthusiastic young learners soon outpaced the available space. The preschool then moved to a nearby church, a temporary home that symbolized the community’s commitment to education. Recognizing the vital role of early education, EBZEF and its partners embarked on a mission to create a lasting foundation for learning.
Building a Dream
In 2014, with funding from Baal Dan Charities, the preschool found a permanent home. A two-classroom building was constructed near the Memorial Library, offering a safe and stable environment for children to explore, learn, and grow. By 2016, the vision expanded further, with plans for additional classrooms to accommodate Baby Class (1st year) and Middle Class (2nd year). This expansion, made possible by partnerships with World Vision Zambia and continued support from EBZEF and Baal Dan Charities, set the stage for a thriving program.
The preschool’s facilities were enriched with child-sized chairs and tables, colorful mats, essential teaching materials, and, later, modern waterborne lavatories. These upgrades created a nurturing environment that fosters both safety and a love for learning.
A Beacon of Success
Today, the EBZEF preschool stands as a model of what early education can achieve in rural communities. Its well-trained educators guide children through a curriculum that not only prepares them for basic school but also inspires a lifelong passion for learning. Preschool alumni often excel academically, a testament to the program’s strong foundation. EBZEF's partnership with Baal Dan Charities has helped to build 3 classrooms for the now-burgeoning pre-school, a rarity in remote rural Zambia.
The Heart of a Community
While the preschool’s success is undeniable, challenges remain. Maintaining resources, expanding facilities to meet growing demand, and addressing external pressures like droughts continue to require attention and support. The EBZEF preschool project embodies the spirit of Lumwana West. It is more than a school; it is a testament to the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities. By nurturing its youngest members, EBZEF is sowing the seeds of a brighter, more empowered future for generations to come.
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