Over 5,500 children in Nakonde District have returned to school between 2022 and 2026, a milestone attributed to government’s Free Education policy now law.

Nakonde District Education Board Secretary (DEBS), Hitami Kaala revealed a steady upward trend in re-enrolment. According to the data, 531 children returned in 2022, followed by 624 in 2023 and 521 in 2024.

However, the district witnessed a dramatic spike in 2025 and 2026, with 1,430 and 2,432 children returning to school respectively.

Mr. Kaala detailed that the 2026 figure alone comprises 1,109 boys and 1,323 girls. This brings the cumulative total of returning students to 2,418 boys and 3,120 girls over the five-year period.

Mr. Kaala noted that the district recorded significantly higher numbers in the last two years, attributing the momentum to complementary programmes supporting the Free Education initiative.

“The increase is encouraging and demonstrates the importance of giving children an opportunity to continue their education,” Mr. Kaala stated.

He expressed optimism that the numbers will continue to grow, specifically citing the impact of supportive interventions such as the School Feeding Programme in retaining and attracting learners.

Pictures for illustration purposes.