When Holding a Pen Felt Impossible

BEFIT sessions helping Faith learn independently

Holding a pen was once nothing but a dream for seven-year-old Faith Banda, a special needs learner at Kande Catholic Primary School. While other children freely expressed their thoughts through writing and play, Faith struggled to do the same because she did not have the right resources to support her learning and interaction.

For Faith, simple classroom activities often felt impossible. She could not hold a pen properly or use her hands flexibly enough to write. Moving around and interacting with her classmates was also difficult, making it hard for her to build friendships and fully participate in school life.

Finding Inclusion Through BEFIT

Technology making learning accessible for Faith

Everything began to change when Faith started attending the Building Education Foundations Through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) sessions. Through the use of the BEFIT tablet, Faith has discovered a new world of learning and expression. What once seemed impossible became achievable. Without needing flexible hands to write, Faith is now able to access the tablet and actively participate during lessons.

The program has given Faith more than just access to education it has also provided her confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Today, she is able to interact with the digital stories, engaging in more class activities and listening to digital educational concepts  that support brain development.

The Power of Encouragement

Beyond learning, BEFIT has  become a source of comfort and support for Faith. She  has found encouragement in her digital teacher Alefa, who continuously reminds her that she is capable and enough. Through patience, care, and consistent motivation, BEFIT sessions have helped Faith believe in herself and her abilities.

Rhoda Phiri assisting Faith to actively participate in the session

Rhoda Phiri, a Standard 1 teacher, says she is happy to see children like Faith finally feel included in the classroom. She explained that the BEFIT program provides close attention and diverse learning techniques that ordinary classroom settings sometimes struggle to offer. According to her, the program is helping learners with special needs become more independent and confident while learning at their own pace.

“Faith has been able to show intellectual abilities in ways I would never have discovered without the program. With the right resources and support, she is now able to independently complete tasks on the tablet. Before, she could not even hold a pen by herself.” Said  Phiri.

Building Inclusive Education for Every Child

Faith’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, inclusive tools, and compassionate teachers, every child can be given the opportunity to learn, express themselves, and thrive.

One of the main aims of the BEFIT program is to promote inclusivity in education by ensuring literacy and numeracy skills reach every child, regardless of their condition or ability.

At Ulalo, we will continue supporting our partners and working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to read, write, and succeed through the BEFIT program.