The Halcrow Foundation is funding a project in Chitukuko, a village north of Lusaka, that will enable a community school to meet the educational and sanitation needs of almost 500 pupils. The project is run by Build It International, a UK-based charity that builds schools and clinics in disadvantaged communities in Zambia, while running construction skills training programmes for young, unemployed men and women.

The project provides Chitukuko Community School with separate toilet facilities for girls, which is a proven method for keeping older girls in school. The project also creates additional hand washing facilities at the school to promote good hygiene practice and reduce the spread of sickness.

Future employment

Previously the remote location of the school meant it was difficult and expensive for qualified teachers to commute to the area, so Build It International is also building two additional teachers’ houses with private latrines. Providing quality accommodation will bring more qualified teachers to the school, helping to significantly improve the standard of education.

A group of local young men and women will also be trained in additional construction skills so they can build the new school structures, gaining skills and qualifications for future employment. Ultimately, the project will indirectly benefit almost 7,000 local and family members.

Christine Cartland, Senior Grants Fundraiser at Built It International says:

“The generous support from the Halcrow Foundation is making a real difference to the community at Chitukuko. It means we can make long-term changes by developing community infrastructure and develop livelihoods. It means local children and young people will have access to education and training, and the chance of a brighter future.”

You can read more about this project, and the local teams working on it here.

About Build It International

Build It International works in Zambia and believes everyone has a right to education and training, to enable a sustainable future. It has completed nearly 50 community construction projects including schools, clinics and sanitation facilities, and has trained more than 1,000 young men and women in construction skills. The charity uses sustainable local materials and construction techniques wherever possible.