Mother's Dream
A Mother’s Dream That Changed Everything
How far would you walk for an education? One kilometer? Three? In Mkushi, Zambia, children once faced a daunting 12-kilometer journey just to reach the nearest school. For Anna and her husband, who moved to Mkushi in 2015 with their young daughter to serve the community, this distance posed a heartbreaking challenge: their child couldn’t attend school.
And she wasn’t alone. Many children in the area, especially the younger ones, were unable to make the long trek. Some older children managed, but for most, education was simply out of reach.
One night, Anna had a vivid dream—she was teaching a group of children at the base of Mkushi. The next morning, she shared the dream with her husband, and together they decided to act. Anna began visiting neighboring homes, asking parents if their children could join hers for informal lessons at their base. Two children joined at first. With their parents’ blessing, Anna began teaching.
Word spread quickly. More children came, eager to learn. Despite limited resources, Anna’s dream was becoming a reality. Education was no longer a distant hope—it was just a short walk away.
What began as a small reception class grew steadily. Today, the school serves 92 students from reception through grade 6. Recently, EIA visited Mkushi to provide literacy training. While attendance was strong, many students still struggled with reading and writing. Trainers introduced a new literacy method, and the teachers embraced it wholeheartedly. They’ve committed to one-on-one support for slower learners, ensuring no child is left behind.
The school now has five dedicated teachers, up from just one. They’re praying for more staff and the addition of a grade 7 class, so students can continue their education locally without facing long commutes.
Anna’s desire to educate her child has blossomed into a beacon of hope for an entire community. Her dream didn’t just change her daughter’s future—it transformed the lives of dozens of children in rural Zambia.