Of the world’s 150 million orphans and vulnerable children, approximately 58 million are located in sub-Saharan Africa. This number has grown over the years due to factors including poverty, AIDS, disintegrated families, and other pandemics that affect much of Africa1. Due to these factors, children are often deprived of access to quality education. Though many entities have adopted initiatives to address this issue, challenges with institutional and structural elements remain. Compassionate leadership aBnd dedicated support for these children are urgently needed. taUsing confidence and skills gained through the African Sister’s Education Collaborative (ASEC) programs, Sr. Bertha Chisanga, CPS, is doing her part to advocate for educational opportunities for Zambian youth in need.
A two-time graduate of ASEC programming, Sr. Bertha Chisanga, of the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood (CPS), currently serves as Project Coordinator for the Bakhita Partnership Project for Education (BPE). The BPE allows vulnerable girls educational access that was halted due to the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program specifically supports girls in grades 11 and 12, who face additional challenges such as family instability and financial hardships. The girls are assisted and encouraged to remain in school to receive a quality education, as well as safety from gender based violence, which many face at home. With Sr. Bertha's guidance and support, approximately 320 girls benefit annually.
Through Sr. Bertha’s dedication and forwarded-thinking leadership, new educational opportunities are now emerging in her community. Applying the administrative and technological skills she learned in ASEC’s Sister’s Leadership Development Initiative (SLDI) Administrative track, Sr. Bertha played a key role in submitting a proposal which was awarded $10,000 in funding. The funding will enable her congregation to open a pre-school for children in Makeni, where the need for greater access to early childhood education is prevalent. Providing this opportunity for young children and their families will not only positively impact them, but will foster hope and long-term community growth for the future.
A Grade 12 certificate is a requirement for employment at the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods (ZAS), where Sr. Bertha currently serves in Lusaka, Zambia. With support of ASEC’s Scholarship program, Sr. Bertha graduated Grade 12 in 2023. She credits this bridge in education with the professional role she holds and the advocacy work she has been able to provide because of it. Sr. Bertha gained more than administrative skills; she developed confidence and self-esteem. Sr. Bertha hopes that more recognition is given to Catholic sisters in Africa for their vital contributions, not only in education, but in the various ways they selflessly improve the quality of life for those around them.
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