Ladder to Learning
Ladder to Learning – Lilongwe, Malawi
Ladder to Learning (L2L) is a grassroots, youth-led organization based in Lilongwe, Malawi, dedicated to enhancing the educational experience for children in public primary schools. Established in 2015 by Patience Silungwe Khembo, the organization focuses on improving literacy and learning outcomes by providing access to essential educational resources that complement the existing school curriculum. Through a range of afterschool programs, reading clubs, and digital literacy initiatives, Ladder to Learning seeks to bridge the gaps in Malawi’s education system and create new opportunities for students from underserved communities.
Mission and Vision
Ladder to Learning’s core mission is to empower students in Malawi’s public primary schools by enhancing literacy skills, expanding access to learning materials, and creating opportunities for future success. The organization aims to equip children with the knowledge and skills needed to open up career opportunities that were previously out of reach, all while building a culture of learning and innovation among both students and volunteers.
Founding and Background
Patience Silungwe Khembo founded Ladder to Learning in 2015 out of a desire to improve the educational opportunities available to children in Malawi’s public primary schools. Having experienced the benefits of quality education herself, Khembo sought to replicate those opportunities for children in underserved areas. She recognized that public schools in Malawi often suffer from high student-to-teacher ratios, inadequate resources, and limited access to extracurricular activities, resulting in many students falling behind early on in their education.
By launching Ladder to Learning, Khembo has reached over 15,000 students across six partner schools through remedial programs, literacy hubs, and mentorship initiatives. Her vision is to reach 100,000 children across Malawi by 2027.
Programs
Ladder to Learning operates five core programs designed to improve literacy, digital skills, and career awareness among public primary school students.
1. Literacy Hubs
Literacy Hubs provide students and teachers with access to books, educational materials, tech gadgets, and other learning resources. These hubs are central to L2L’s effort to increase literacy rates by fostering a reading culture in Malawi’s schools. The hubs also offer library services, stationery, arts & crafts, reading sessions, and educational clubs to support children in their academic journey.
Learn more about Literacy Hubs on Ladder to Learning’s Website.
2. Remedial Reading Program
The Remedial Reading Program is an afterschool initiative designed to help students who are struggling with literacy and numeracy. This program operates on the Teaching at the Right Level (TARL) approach, which teaches children according to their actual level of understanding rather than their age or grade level. The program focuses on improving foundational literacy skills, ensuring that students can catch up and progress in their education.
Currently, the remedial program serves 5,000 students and has been one of L2L’s most impactful initiatives.
3. Mentorship Program
The Mentorship Program pairs students with international professionals who provide guidance and inspiration through virtual mentorship sessions. This secure and monitored environment enables children to learn from individuals outside their immediate communities, giving them exposure to new ideas and career paths they may not have previously considered.
This program aims to instill ambition and a sense of possibility in students by introducing them to a variety of professionals who share their career experiences and advice.
4. Motivation Sessions
Through Motivation Sessions, Ladder to Learning invites local professionals to speak with students about their careers, offering insight into the various career opportunities available in Malawi and beyond. These sessions provide a hands-on way for students to engage with role models from their own communities and learn about the steps required to achieve their career goals.
5. Digital Literacy Program
In the Digital Literacy Program, Ladder to Learning provides students with access to digital devices and teaches them essential skills for the modern world. Many children in Malawi’s public primary schools have little to no access to technology, putting them at a disadvantage in the digital age. This program addresses that gap by offering training in computer skills and online literacy, helping students build a foundation for future success in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Youth Leadership and Volunteerism
Ladder to Learning is a youth-led organization that not only serves young students but is also powered by young volunteers. These volunteers come from the same communities as the students, making it a truly grassroots effort. The organization offers volunteers training in tutoring skills, database management, safeguarding processes, leadership, and budgeting, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve the students effectively.
Volunteers also gain personal and professional development opportunities, making the experience a valuable stepping stone for their own futures. By engaging youth from the same areas as the schools, L2L strengthens the sense of community, ensuring that the volunteers are not only contributing to the future of the children but also to the improvement of the communities that raised them.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Ladder to Learning has developed partnerships with schools, international organizations, and changemakers, providing them with the support needed to expand their impact. These partnerships have helped the organization secure resources, expand its curriculum, and offer additional opportunities for both students and volunteers.
Some of L2L’s notable partnerships include:
These partnerships have enabled Ladder to Learning to expand its reach and deepen its impact within Malawi’s education system.
Future Goals
Ladder to Learning has ambitious goals for the future. By 2027, the organization aims to reach 50,000 students with its literacy, digital learning, and remedial programs. Additionally, they plan to expand their partnerships and continue to develop innovative ways to address the educational challenges faced by public primary schools in Malawi.
The founder, Patience Khembo, is committed to ensuring that Ladder to Learning remains responsive to the evolving needs of both students and the broader education system in Malawi. By constantly evaluating their programs and seeking feedback from students, teachers, and volunteers, Ladder to Learning ensures that its interventions remain relevant and impactful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Ladder to Learning’s primary focus?
Ladder to Learning focuses on improving literacy and digital skills for students in Malawi’s public primary schools. The organization runs a variety of afterschool programs, including remedial reading, mentorship, and digital literacy initiatives.
How many students has Ladder to Learning reached?
As of 2023, Ladder to Learning has impacted over 15,000 students across six partner schools. They aim to reach 50,000 students by 2027.
How can I volunteer with Ladder to Learning?
Ladder to Learning recruits volunteers from local communities, particularly young adults who are passionate about working with children. Volunteers receive training in tutoring, leadership, and other skills. To inquire about volunteer opportunities, visit the Ladder to Learning website.
What is the Teaching at the Right Level (TARL) curriculum?
The TARL approach involves teaching students based on their actual level of understanding, rather than their age or grade. Students are only upgraded to the next level once they have fully grasped the material. This approach ensures that children receive the support they need to catch up and succeed academically.
How can I support Ladder to Learning?
You can support Ladder to Learning through donations, partnerships, or by volunteering. Visit their official website to learn more about how you can contribute.
For more information, visit Ladder to Learning’s official website or follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn.