Transforming Nursing Education in Rural Zambia: The Chikuni Mission Story
The Sisters of Charity have a long-standing tradition of serving the poor and vulnerable through healthcare, education and community development. At Chikuni Mission in Southern Province, Zambia, this mission continues through the construction of a modern hostel for student nurses undertaking rural clinical training. ▶Watch the full documentary: A Vision Rooted in Service Speaking on the origins of the project, Sr. Vivian Chanda, a Religious Sister of Charity, explains that the initiative was born out of a real and pressing need. Each year, a growing number of student nurses are posted to Chikuni Mission Hospital for rural experience. However, the old hostel could no longer meet acceptable living standards. Guided by their charism ‘’To Serve the Poor with Dignity,’’ the Sisters resolved that students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds, deserved accommodation that reflected respect, care and human dignity. The project began through local fundraising initiatives, particularly income from rentals, before receiving a major boost when Bet Trust contributed 75% of the funding required to complete the hostel. Improving Learning and Living Conditions Today, student nurses and their tutors are housed in a safer, more comfortable environment that supports academic focus and personal well-being. Reliable access to electricity and water has significantly improved study conditions, allowing students to concentrate on their training without the daily challenges previously faced. A second-year students from Choma College of Nursing describe life at Chikuni Mission as welcoming and conducive to learning. Beyond accommodation, the Sisters foster strong relationships with students, mentoring, guiding and walking alongside them during their rural placement. “The Sisters are friendly and willing to teach us. They have created a conducive environment for learning,” shared one student nurse. Strengthening Community Capacity The hostel project has also created employment opportunities for the surrounding community. Local residents have been engaged as cooks and cleaners, enabling them to earn a livelihood and support their families, including sending their children to school. Communal cooking and shared meals have fostered unity among students, encouraging cooperation and mutual support, particularly important for those from less privileged backgrounds. By removing the burden of daily cooking, students are able to focus fully on their academic and clinical responsibilities. Holistic Formation: Academic and Spiritual Growth In addition to professional training, students are exposed to spiritual formation through activities at Cardoner Garden. This holistic approach ensures that as students leave Chikuni Mission, they do so not only as qualified nurses but as responsible, compassionate and mature citizens of Zambia. Ongoing Challenges and Future Needs Despite the progress achieved, challenges remain. Sr. Francesca Mutelo highlights ongoing needs, including: Currently, some students take meals on the veranda due to the lack of dining furniture, an area where further support can make a meaningful difference. A Call for Continued Support Thanks to the vision, commitment and generosity of the Sisters of Charity and their partners, Chikuni Mission is providing a safe and dignified home for the nurses of tomorrow. With continued support, the project can be fully completed and expanded to benefit even more students and the wider community. ▶Watch, share and subscribe on YouTube: Your engagement helps amplify stories of faith in action, service and sustainable development across Zambia.