The Scottish Government has launched a £7.5 million initiative aimed at strengthening inclusive and safe education for children and young women in Zambia, Malawi and Rwanda.
The programme, known as the Realising Inclusive and Safe Education (RISE) initiative, will run for five years.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Dr. Kelvin Mambwe, represented by Assistant Director for Teacher Education and Specialised Services Dr. Mwenya Mwamba, described the initiative as an important step toward building equitable education systems across the region.
Dr. Mwamba said Scotland’s investment demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring that all children have access to learning opportunities, with special attention on helping girls complete secondary and post-secondary education.
Meanwhile, Scottish Government Inclusive Education Lead James McNulty said Scotland and Zambia will strengthen cooperation in promoting equitable education for girls and learners with disabilities.
School to School Zambia Programmes Director Kristina Solum, whose organisation is among the programme implementers, noted that the RISE initiative will support the development of sustainable education programmes that governments can continue even after donor support ends.
Ms. Solum said sustainability remains one of the biggest challenges in inclusive education and called for active participation from all stakeholders.
And Oxfam Zambia Country Director Chitimbwa Chifunda urged stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organisations and development partners in advancing girls’ education.
