Zambia’s School Population is Growing Rapidly, Yet Facing Seating Shortages.

In Lusaka, Zambia, the government’s initiative to provide desks for overcrowded classrooms in public schools is not only addressing a pressing need but also boosting local carpenters’ businesses. Lyson Banda, a carpenter with a bustling workshop, was commissioned to build over 1,000 desks for schools in his constituency, thanks to the government’s support.

Since the abolition of school fees in 2022, the education system in Zambia has seen a surge of over 2 million new students, leading to a shortage of desks in classrooms. The government, through the Constituency Development Fund, awarded contracts to local artisans like Banda to bridge this gap.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima aims to provide about 2 million desks to schools across the country. While the cost of the desk contracts remains undisclosed, the government allocated a significant portion of the national budget to the education sector in 2023.

Despite challenges in meeting the demand for desks, the government’s efforts are making a difference. Students like Kondwani Mwale express the importance of having desks for a conducive learning environment. With more desks expected to be delivered, the hope is to improve the quality of education in Zambia.

For local artisans like Banda and James Mulenga, the government contracts have not only provided a steady income but also opportunities for business growth. As they expand their workforce and invest in their businesses, the impact of the government’s support is felt beyond the classroom, transforming lives and livelihoods in the community.