Sisabelo Saka Inclusive School (SSIS) is a non-profit inclusive primary school based in Lusaka, Zambia, currently teaching 16 blind and visually impaired children. Although SSIS has the capacity to teach more children, the numbers attending is limited due to lack of adequate funding for specialised materials and negative community attitudes.
However, SSIS is dedicated to empowering children with visual impairments and offers a wide range of services from early childhood and primary school education, assistive devices, transportation support, uniforms, a feeding programme, computer literacy and music lessons. Sisabelo Saka meaning ‘my place of safety and security’ provides an amazing space for learners by creating a positive, caring and nurturing environment.
Children with visual impairments in Zambia face systemic challenges in accessing education, including a lack of assistive technologies, inadequate teacher training, and insufficient learning materials. Furthermore, stigma, socio-economic barriers and high costs for specialised schools limits opportunities for education.
Education
HealthIn 2025, Hands Around the World began a partnership with SSIS to support the school with contributions towards the feeding programme, school uniforms and transport.
The school provides the learners with a daily meal, ensuring all children receive regular nutritious food, reducing hunger and improving academic performance, whilst the provision of uniforms provides the learners with a sense of belonging and confidence. Providing reliable and safe transport for all students, ensures all learners can consistently attend school.
The school provides a safe, supportive environment where students can thrive, fostering personal growth and equipping them with essential life skills, regardless of ability. The school aims to provide equitable and quality education to break down the barriers children with visual impairment face in accessing education.
Hands Around the World (HATW) has recently established a new partnership with Sisabelo Saka Inclusive School (SSIS) in Lusaka, Zambia. SSIS is a non-profit inclusive primary school, currently teaching 16 blind and visually impaired children.... Read more »
