EBZEF Scholarship Program
The EBZEF Scholarship Program is a vital source of opportunity for young women in Lumwana West, Zambia. Since its inception, it has provided life-changing educational support, transforming the futures of "Beth’s Girls" and empowering them to uplift their community.
Opening Doors to EducationThe EBZEF Scholarship Program was launched in 2004 to support girls who had limited access to secondary education. At the time, many young women faced significant barriers, including financial hardship and cultural expectations that often led to early pregnancies and limited their ability to continue their education. Seeing the need for change, EBZEF sought ways to expand educational opportunities for girls. In collaboration with the community, they worked together to break the cycle of poverty by ensuring that young women could pursue their studies and build brighter futures.
What started as secondary school scholarships soon grew to include college and vocational training opportunities. With each passing year, more Beth’s Girls graduated and moved on to professional studies, establishing new standards of success and leadership within their community.
What started as secondary school scholarships soon grew to include college and vocational training opportunities. With each passing year, more Beth’s Girls graduated and moved on to professional studies, establishing new standards of success and leadership within their community.
Christabel Sweta
Pharmacist
Graduated from Apex Medical University in October 2023 with a BS in Pharmacy. The total cost for 7 years of outstanding study was $23,535. “Thank you for your support throughout my academic journey. Am glad I didn’t give up, especially when school got tough. It wasn’t easy, but for your encouragement I am truly grateful!" Continuing for MA degree at University of Lusaka. “As a female in our society it’s not often to attain a Master’s in one’s field. I think this will inspire other females and my fellow Beth’s Girls."
Caren Kabulayi
Clinical Opthamology
Graduated in Clinical Medicine from Northwestern University, College of Health & Applied Science in 2022. She will study clinical ophthalmology at Levy Wanawasa Medical University. “Thank you for the encouragement, support and love you have shown me in achievement of my dream. I have become a clinical officer because of you.” As she continues her studies, she states, "Without your support I would have not reached here. Your work is not in vain. I am studying hard to make you proud."
Visaka Kapalu
Medicine and Surgery
Visaka Kapalu graduated from Lusaka Apex Medical University on September 29th, 2022 with a degree in Human Biology. “My degree is in medicine and surgery. It takes 7 years of study. In 5th year I graduated with a degree in human biology from pre-clinical classes to clinical classes. At the end of 7 years I will graduate with a degree in medicine and surgery as a general human doctor.” Congratulations, Visaka!
Sandra Kamulosu
Librarian
Sandra Kamulosu has a certificate in Library Studies from Zamtel College graduated in August 2017 with a teaching diploma from Zambia College of Open Education. She has been working as Librarian in the Elizabeth Bowers Memorial Library since its inception and is a key supporter of EBZEF’s literacy program for Lumwana West. “We are really thankful for the help tendered to us. On behalf of the entire community we say you have made a change in Lumwana West"
Growth and Achievements
- Since its inception, the EBZEF Scholarship Program has transformed the educational landscape for young women in Lumwana West. • By 2010, dozens of students had completed secondary education, with many advancing to university-level studies in fields like education, healthcare, and engineering. • In 2016, a new wave of graduates entered the workforce as midwives, nurses, teachers, and business professionals, proving that education has the power to uplift not just individuals but entire families. • Role models like Melba Chitala, a midwife, and Mary Lundeba, an aquaculture specialist, have become symbols of what is possible when young women are given the opportunity to learn and lead. • By 2023, the program had facilitated hundreds of scholarships, producing a new generation of teachers, nurses, engineers, and business leaders—many of whom are now giving back to their community by mentoring and supporting future Beth’s Girls.
- These milestones highlight the lasting impact of EBZEF’s commitment to education. Each scholarship awarded not only changes a student’s life but also strengthens the entire community, fostering a cycle of learning, leadership, and empowerment.
Impact and Continuing Challenges
Today, EBZEF’s Scholarship Program is a source of pride, with its alumnae excelling in diverse fields. Many graduates return to Lumwana West to give back, teaching in schools, working in local clinics, and mentoring future Beth’s Girls.
Despite its success, the program faces ongoing challenges. With increasing demand for scholarships, funding remains a critical need. The rising costs of higher education, coupled with economic hardships, mean that EBZEF must continuously seek support to sustain and expand the program. We are most grateful for our donors and volunteers!
A Legacy of Empowerment
The impact of the EBZEF Scholarship Program goes beyond individual success stories. It has sparked a cultural shift, where educating girls is now seen as a powerful investment in the future. Each graduate not only changes her own life but also inspires others, proving that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Through this program, EBZEF continues to turn dreams into reality, ensuring that generations of Beth’s Girls will have the tools they need to create lasting change.