• The 1×3 classroom block is valued at K688, 729.
• The classroom will benefit over 350.
• Absa also purchased desks and chairs for the new classroom block valued at K82, 800.

Absa Bank Zambia in collaboration with World Vision Zambia, has handed over a newly constructed 1×3 classroom block to Chipapa Secondary School in Kafue District.
The classroom, valued at K688, 729 will benefit over 350 learners in the Chipapa area.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Absa Bank Zambia Managing Director Mizinga Melu, said the financial institution is excited that its partnership with World Vision has resulted in the 1×3 classroom block, which will go a long way in ensuring that pupils continue to attend lessons with confidence.
Absa Bank also bought desks and chairs for the new classroom block valued at K82, 800. It also assisted with K350, 000, while World Vision Zambia funded K338, 729 towards the construction of the new block which is poised to increase classroom space and provide a conducive learning environment.
Meanwhile, Absa has funded the purchase of various hygiene materials and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) valued at K300, 000 which will benefit over 10,000 learners and community members in the Chipapa Secondary School area.
The materials consist of 460 disposable face masks, 1100 hand sanitizers in 3 sizes (50mls, 75mls 400mls), 25 handheld thermometers, 50 Granular Chlorine (25kg), 20 boxes of examination gloves and 20 (1-litre Pressure Plastic Sprayers).
This is part of the Bank’s contribution towards the fight against COVID-19.
“Absa Bank Zambia PLC did not stop at providing the building but went further to assist with desks and tables. This affirms our commitment to supporting education as part of our citizenship strategy where we strive to be a Force For Good in the communities we operate in.”
“Today, as we celebrate one year of the Absa brand operating in Zambia, we continue to be inspired by the country’s Africanacity spirit, that distinct ability to find a way to get things done amidst challenges. We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected different societal groups and hope that the items donated through our partner, World Vision will help to mitigate the devastating effects,” Mrs. Melu added.
Mrs. Melu said this in a speech read for her by Absa Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Mato Shimabale.
And World Vision Zambia National Director, John Hasse said the construction of the classroom block will go a long way in ensuring that pupils continue to attend lessons with confidence.
Mr. Hasse stated that his organization, together with Absa Bank Zambia are contributing to the improved well-being of underprivileged children and their families in Kafue’s Chipapa area, therefore, ensuring that vulnerable children live life in all its fullness.
“The classroom block will also reduce overcrowding in classrooms, and the hygiene and protective materials are critical during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic where leaners must social distance and maintain high levels of cleanliness to ensure their safety.”
“We are also making this donation of COVID-19 materials to ensure that pupils and teachers are safe and remain healthy as they attend lessons in schools,” he said.
The two organizations have been supporting vulnerable communities through various initiatives, such as distribution of sanitary towels to adolescent girls which help keep girls in school during menstruation and subsequently improves the passing rate for girls.
Other initiatives include donation of assorted COVID-19 supplies to schools and health facilities at the value of K300, 000 online platform that helps the transition from the world of education to employment or entrepreneurship, and provision of school desks at Chipapa secondary School schools.
This is contained in a joint statement issued to Money FM News by Absa Bank Marketing and Communications Manager Lufungulo, and World Vision Zambia Associate Director for Local Fundraising and Communications Sally Namutowe.