Ephphatha: “Be Opened” Catholic Sisters Opening Pathways to Learning in Zambia

In Zambia, individuals with disabilities often encounter social stigma and exclusion. Many communities continue to perceive disability through supernatural or moral lenses, leading to misunderstanding and isolation. At the same time, a growing national movement is working to increase awareness, visibility, and inclusion, especially through training for teachers and caregivers of persons with disabilities. Expanding access to appropriate and effective special education services—including specialized communication and learning supports—is a vital component of this initiative. The Bauleni Special Needs Project in Lusaka aims to address this critical gap. 

Since 2021, four SLDI alumnae have served at the site, with two currently active—Sr. Lucky Nambeye, SSHJM, Manager for Sheltered Staff and the Hostel, and Sr. Felistus Mulenga, SSHJM, Finance Officer. Participants of ASEC’s 2026 Alumnae Leaders and Staff Workshop had the opportunity to conduct a site visit to the Bauleni Special Needs Project and witness firsthand the profound impact of the sisters’ ministries.

Operated by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary (SSHJM) under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Lusaka, this congregational project “offers inclusive and quality education to children with disabilities, and other very vulnerable children and orphans.” Established in 1996, the project is recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Inclusive Special Needs Education in Zambia. Notably, it is also the only school in Lusaka that provides education and support to children who are both deaf and blind.

In 2025, the project served 1,300 children from Grade One through the secondary level. In addition to academic programming, Bauleni includes a skills training centre for vulnerable youths and operates income-generating activities such as tailoring, catering, and carpentry—promoting long-term sustainability. 

Sr. Lucky shared that participation in SLDI strengthened her ability to serve at Bauleni, enhancing her computer proficiency and managerial skills and enabling her to “work with the administration professionally.” 

The holistic education provided at the Bauleni Special Needs Project fosters independence and enables students to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. As Sr. Felistus reflected, “With the consistency of the teachers and dedication, they help the children to transition and pick up skills they can do themselves.” The project also engages students’ families as partners, providing information and strategies to help them understand and address the individual needs of their children.

In the Gospel of Mark (7:31-37), Jesus speaks a single word “Ephphatha”—“Be opened.” It is a word of connection, of dignity, of relationship. In Zambia, that same spirit of openness flourishes at the Bauleni Special Needs Project, where Catholic sisters serve children with disabilities with patience, faith, and love. 

ASEC extends sincere gratitude to Sr. Lucky, Sr. Felistus, and the Bauleni Special Needs Project for welcoming ASEC alumnae and staff to their campus and creating a meaningful opportunity for learning, collaboration, and shared mission. 

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