Creative Learning in Zambia

FCTrelief runs workshops during the spring and autumn holidays. They last two weeks and are characterised by creative learning and a varied programme. Gordon Merk reports.

Demonstration of Chemistry Experiments

Creative Learning

The learning process is multifaceted. We all learn in different ways. That's why we at FCTrelief endeavour to promote creative ways of learning. The two-week workshops are well suited to this.

Experiments with chemistry are a practical illustration of what the pupils otherwise only learn in theory. The recently acquired purchases - at the recommendation of Peter Zulu, the chemistry teacher - helped in an impressive way. Learning is also more fun this way! A quiz on scientific questions was organised as a competition between two groups. Questions such as the following examples were asked: What is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy? Which blood vessels help fight infections? What is the chemical formula of ‘methane’? Such questions are part and parcel of creative learning.

We want our pupils to love learning. Their curiosity to know more should be awakened and fostered. We encourage them to read, because a reading child becomes a thinking adult. FCTrelief endeavours to achieve this. Presentations and debates also foster a love of learning.

Presentations with Feedback

Presentations and Debates

Ernest, the maths teacher, spoke about gender-based violence in one of his presentations. This was followed by a discussion on whether or not offenders should be pardoned by the President. The pupils were divided into pro and contra groups. Three chairpersons led the debate and conclusions were drawn. The learning effect is good. Good articulation and logical argumentation are encouraged.

Ernest's second lecture focussed on the dangers of drug abuse. This is one of the most important topics in Linda Compound. Education and prevention are necessary. We promote this very consciously.

In two online presentations on the topic ‘A bad environment corrupts good habits’, Gordon spoke about the importance of good friends with good influence. He asked questions such as:

• ‘Are you being influenced positively or negatively?'

• ‘Are you changing for the better or for the worse?’

• ‘Are the influences bringing you closer to your goals or not?’

The challenges were gratefully received. The second message, ‘Don't do anything that gets you nowhere’, was also an instruction on how to live with purpose and determination. Every life is valuable and we should live accordingly.

'Girls Talk' with Racheal

'Girls Talk'

The ‘Girls Talk’ - a conversation between girls - is led by Racheal, the English teacher. These are confidential discussions that help the girls to better understand important issues. There are still many teenage pregnancies in Zambia, both wanted and unwanted. Racheal addresses this important topic openly and directly. The girls are informed about the consequences and encouraged to make good decisions.

A few months ago, Gordon organised an online interview with a young woman from South Africa who became a mother at 17. It was a valuable input for everyone. It is important that we give space to such topics and that girls can communicate and gain a new perspective.

Netball on the Sports Field

Sport and Leisure Time

Sport and leisure activities in a safe environment are also important for the healthy development of our pupils. Exercise and fun with football or netball are always attractive. Chess and various card games are also part of leisure time. Chess has recently become very popular. It promotes efficient learning, complex thinking and developing flexible strategies.

One of the highlights of the workshops is watching a good film on the big screen. It's almost like going to the cinema. We choose films with positive content. They should be an inspiring role model and convey a good message. Gifted Hands is about Dr Ben Carson, who came from difficult circumstances and became a famous surgeon. His single mother was committed to his education despite poverty. Films like this encourage our pupils. They decide to study hard, overcome challenges and realise their dreams.

Chess: a popular Game at FCTrelief

Theatre and Dance

The workshop also included a theatre performance as well as dancing and singing. This is fun and brings variety. Some of the pupils dressed up in the style of the 1920s. It was a demonstration of what life was like back then. Dressing up and playing theatre from a bygone era was amusing and educational.

It was a wonderful and creative two weeks for our children. Everyone enjoyed the programme. At the end, some of them put their experiences into words.

• We understand ourselves better and now think positively about ourselves.

• We feel much more confident, encouraged and motivated.

• We are grateful that we have friends who always encourage us to do the right thing.

We are very pleased with the outcome of the workshops. Now we have a two-week holiday. We will continue with the next semester in mid-May. FCTrelief supports ‘Future through Education’. You too can support our work. Thank you!

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