Empowering Futures: The Impact of Tutoring at Amos Youth Centre
By Annabel Mumba
Annabel Mumba is AYC’s Donor Relations Coordinator in Zambia. She is a Scholarship Fund recipient, high school graduate and current college student, and also one of our Success Stories.
Co-written by Pamela O’Brien, African Education Program’s Development Director, who is mentoring Annabel as she pursues a journalism degree.
Clement, AYC’s Academic Coordinator, smiles with his 8th grade students.
The tutoring program at the Amos Youth Centre’s Learning & Leadership Center in Kafue, Zambia has stood the test of time and transformed lives. From its humble beginnings, born out of a desire to provide educational support to young minds, it has blossomed into one of the most vital pillars of the center's mission.
This program has developed into a structured curriculum led by high school graduates who have become mentors, dedicated to supporting their younger "brothers" and "sisters." Currently, 14 tutors in AYC’s College Prep Program who have successfully completed high school, spend their gap year giving back before pursuing their college or university education. Clement Mwanza, an alumi of the program and AYC’s Academic Coordinator, oversees the tutoring efforts to ensure their effectiveness. He and his team consistently measure the program's impact through annual evaluations of student performance. In 2024, AYC reported an 89% passing rate for grade 9 students and a 90% passing rate for grade 7 students — a clear testament to the program's success.
The tutoring program has transformed the lives of students in profound ways. It goes beyond academic support; it fosters a sense of mentorship, belonging, and community. Through one-on-one sessions and classroom tutoring, students not only excel in their core subjects but also develop invaluable life skills and confidence.
The significance of the tutoring program became even more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. When schools shuttered their doors and uncertainty loomed over the future of education, the center became a lifeline for students. Through old-school methods such as phone calls and educational packs, the program ensured that learning never stopped, bridging the gap between classrooms and homes.
As the world emerged from the shadows of the pandemic, the impact of the tutoring program continued to reverberate. With a renewed sense of purpose, students like Elias and Paulina stand as testimonials to its efficacy. Elias, once uncertain about his academic journey, now strides confidently towards his goals.
“The tutoring at the center helped me plan my studies,” he shares, reflecting on the transformative impact of the program. “The techniques I learned not only helped me catch up in areas I was lacking at school but also prepared me for the challenges ahead.”
Paulina's story echoes Elias's sentiment, as she credits the center for her academic achievements. With the nurturing guidance of the tutors, she confidently strides into eighth grade, equipped with knowledge and skills beyond her years. "The teachers at the center made sure that I was up to date with my classwork before going into the exam room," she affirms, highlighting the personalized attention and dedication of the tutors.
Behind the scenes, AYC staff leaders like Ceasar Samwaka, the Director of Academics & Scholarships and one of AYC’s Co-Directors, and Clement Mwanza, tirelessly champion the cause, their dedication shaping the program's success. Their passion, coupled with the commitment of teachers and volunteers, fuels a cycle of empowerment that knows no bounds.
“Recording the success of the students is my biggest motivation. I remember too how these classes helped me to pass and get this far in my career; now that I work with them, I am making sure that the impact is bigger than before!”
But the success of the tutoring program extends beyond individual achievements; it fosters a sense of community and belonging. Belingtone attests to the program's impact on his academic performance, while Christine appreciates the opportunity to familiarize herself with exam formats. Their stories intertwine with those of countless others, forming a tapestry of success woven by the Amos Youth Centre's tutoring program.
Christine shared, “The tutoring at the center gave me a chance to go through past papers, which made me aware of what to expect during the exams.”
As the Amos Youth Centre continues to nurture young minds, the impact of its tutoring program reverberates far beyond the confines of its walls. It is a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering dedication of those who believe in its potential to change lives. In the face of adversity, the tutoring program stands as a beacon of hope, guiding generations toward a brighter future.
Here are some of the faces behind the scenes of AYC’s tutoring program (l-r): Elias, Christine, Bellington, and Ceasar Samwaka with Clement Mwanza.
