The power of playful learning in Zambia
Join for Joy supports primary school teachers in rural Zambia by implementing playful learning as a teaching method at school. Through the specially designed training program, teachers learn how to create an inclusive and (gender) equal environment, act as positive role models, and use sports and play activities to address social subjects with children. Playful learning encourages children to come to school and stay in school, paving the way to a brighter future.
Our impact on schools
280
teachers are trained
227.500
children play at schools and in their communities
70
schools in our program
We have been working in Chongwe District since 2018
We have been working in Chilanaga since 2025
The Join for Joy Zambia office is located in Lusaka
Where we work
Join for Joy has been working with rural primary schools in the Chongwe District since 2018 and in Chilanaga since 2025. The Join for Joy Zambia office is located in Lusaka.
The Menstrual Health Program
In Zambia, many girls miss school each month because they lack menstrual products and reliable information about their bodies. Our Menstrual Health Program addresses this challenge by providing girls with reusable menstrual cups, practical health education, and a safe, open environment to talk about menstruation.
What makes our approach unique is that we integrate playful learning into the program. Through games, music, and interactive group activities, we create safe and lighthearted spaces where sensitive topics like menstruation can be addressed without shame or fear. By involving both male and female teachers, we build supportive school communities where menstruation is no longer a taboo subject. We also engage parents and caregivers through dedicated sessions and community events, ensuring that the entire community is involved.
One single menstrual cup changes everything for a girl: it gives her the opportunity to confidently go to school every day of the month.
Impact of the Menstrual Health Program
Testimonial
“As a role model, learners are able to follow my foot steps to teach them on social themes and life skills. Previously I never looked at gender equality, which is not the case now. Using games all learners are able to partcipate. Also, as teachers we work in collaboation which means there is team work.” – Clement Banda, Head Teacher at Hill Crest Primary School
The Program in Action!
Michael’s story
Michael tell you about the impact the Join for Joy program has on him and his friend at Eden Primary school in Kanganga Village.
Play video
Stop Right Now!
In the game Stop Right Now, children learn how to set their limits verbally and non-verbally, but also to respect each other and to stop as soon as someone indicates their limit. In this way children become assertive, they stand up for themselves and each other and they dare to say ‘STOP’ to unwanted (sexual) behaviour.
