ZAMBIA RED CROSS SOCIETY TRAINS KAPIRI PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS TO SUPPORT VULNERABLE CHILDREN

Zambia Red Cross Society (ZRCS) has trained 10 teachers from Kapiri Mposhi district, Central Province in Psychological First Aid (PFA) to support Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) facing difficult circumstances. The training focused on helping teachers recognize, identify and respond to the emotional needs of children affected by trauma or other challenges.

The teachers, selected from five local schools—Lukanda Primary, Matilyo Primary, Mulonga Primary, Mulungushi Primary, and Kapiri Day Secondary—received training on effective communication, active listening, and managing stress-related behaviors in children. By learning to identify signs of withdrawal, anger, or fear, they are now better equipped to offer compassionate care and emotional support.

ZRCS Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) focal point Serah Kalumbilo emphasized the importance of PFA skills for teachers.

“By training teachers in Psychological First Aid, we are giving them the tools to help children cope with difficult situations, which is vital for fostering resilience and promoting mental well-being,” she said.

ZRCS Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) focal point Serah Kalumbilo

In addition to emotional support, the teachers were trained to create a safe environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. The training included practical strategies for helping children through grief and anxiety and promoting positive coping mechanisms.

Speaking at the training, Kaluzwe David, a Guidance and Counselling teacher from Mulungushi Basic School, praised the program, echoing that it both valuable and empowering. He emphasized that Psychological First Aid skills are crucial for teachers, stating.

“This training has equipped us to better support our pupils emotionally. If possible, every teacher should be trained in these essential skills to provide immediate psychological care,”

Said David Kaluzwe, Mulungushi Basic School Guidance and Counselling teacher

Pupils were also trained on strengthening hygiene clubs in the schools, emphasizing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices. Pupils learned about the importance of handwashing, proper sanitation, and safe water use, helping raise health and hygiene awareness in schools.

Additionally, pupils were trained in climate-smart agriculture, learning sustainable farming techniques such as water conservation, organic composting, and crop rotation. These skills aim to boost food security and empower young people to lead healthier, more sustainable lives.

This initiative reflects the Zambia Red Cross Society’s commitment to building resilient communities by supporting vulnerable children both physically and emotionally. The organization continues to work with schools and local communities in Kapiri Mposhi to expand this vital project and provide the much needed psychological and practical support.