For all of you who donated money to build the new schoolhouse, read Claire Powell’s description of the schoolhouse dedication and shout for joy! 

On December 23, at the dedication of the new school rooms, the Headmaster of Kasama Basic School told the people who helped make the bricks and prepare the celebration:  “Well Done!” Then he pointed out that some in the village failed to offer help with the school but they had no problem in coming to celebrate its completion and eating the food we provided.  No worries,” he said.  “You are welcome, but next time PULL UP YOUR SOCKS.”  Then the representative of the Zambian Ministry of Education (MOE) pledged to send teacher’s desks and chairs, bookshelves, and a new teacher for next term!!!  This brought whooops of joy from the village women.  He then went on to say that they would also add a second new teacher and build a 1X3 CLASSROOM in 2013.   I have it on video and the villagers went wild … they are now gunning for a new teacher’s house.  The MOE was basically pledging to the villagers… you help and the government will match!!