Umuntu Mutwe

Life's journey can be likened to a harmonious blend of flavors, where every experience, regardless of sequence, contributes to a rich and consistent tapestry. What's paramount is how we choose to perceive and respond to life's twists and turns, as it reciprocates with equal measure. Notions of age, timing, or life stage become irrelevant, and every individual has the capacity to rise to challenges and celebrate successes, unlocking their full potential for growth and transformation.

Kudos to the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Zambia for devising short-term local solutions to bolster the local currency against foreign currencies. The reality is that the current surge of the local currency against foreign currencies is ephemeral and may dissipate soon. This could occur after the end of the current quarter or immediately following the national elections scheduled for 2026. As a nation, we must not lose sight of the multiple short-term solutions that have significantly contributed to the local currency outperforming foreign currencies at present. As a development and economic policy specialist, I am well informed about the strengths and weaknesses of our economy. Currently, our country relies heavily on the export of a single commodity, copper, which is performing well in the international market. However, history indicates that copper prices have never been consistently stable for an extended period, implying that they may plummet soon, which would severely impact our local currency. Furthermore, as a mono-economy, the appreciation of our local currency against foreign currencies poses challenges for foreign trade. When the local currency is performing well, it incentivizes local businesses to import more foreign goods, ultimately boosting foreign currencies against our local currency. Engaging in imbalance trade practices means that any fluctuations in the local currency are unsustainable due to a lack of economic protection.

Politicians are frequently perceived as prioritizing their personal interests over the well-being of their respective nations. They possess the ability to shape narratives to suit their agendas, and in some cases, may be implicated in the misappropriation of funds, with billions of dollars allegedly being diverted out of Zambia annually, thereby contributing to the development of other nations at the expense of their own. I strongly condemn any individuals implicated in the improper sale of Zambia's natural resources to capitalist entities that appear to lack a genuine interest in the country's welfare. Citizens often bear the brunt of their manipulative actions. It is imperative to refrain from misleading citizens with claims that the increase in copper prices will significantly benefit Zambia, when in reality, the owners of the means of production, rather than Zambia itself, are likely to reap the benefits of this increase.

Inclusive attitude teachers must possess. I had a friend who received a scholarship to study in Canada. After three years abroad, he returned home looking refreshed and full of life. When I visited him, I jokingly said, "Hey, Mark, it seems the food you've been eating has transformed you; you have changed significantly, my friend." We both laughed. He smiled and said, "My brother, if you were to witness the difference between our systems and Canada's, you would be astonished. Even the school system alone instills self-respect." I was curious, so I asked, "What do you mean?" He then shared something that shocked me. "In my school in Canada, lecturers do not give students zero in exams. Even if a student fails, they will still find a way to encourage them. The lowest grade one can receive is 40%." I was perplexed. "Wait, you mean even if a student performs poorly, they will still receive 40%?" He nodded. "Yes. One day, I asked my lecturer the same question. I said, 'Sir, why not give zero? Isn't that the appropriate consequence for failure?' The lecturer looked at me and said something that had a profound impact on me." He said, "Young man, no human deserves a zero. How can I give a zero to a student who wakes up early every day to attend lectures? How can I give a zero to someone who tries, even if they didn't succeed? How can I give a zero to a mind that is still learning? Here, we don't just grade answers; we grade effort. Everyone deserves to feel seen." My friend paused, his eyes almost teary. He said, "Aubrey, that day I understood the true meaning of humanity. They don't just teach academics; they teach values." His story took me back to my childhood. I remembered how my primary school teacher used to give me zero and then announce it proudly in class. She would draw big eyes and a mouth on my script and instruct my classmates to sing "Shame, shame, shame" while she flogged me in front of everyone. Back then, I thought it was normal. However, I now realize that many of us didn't fail because we were incapable. We failed because the system made us believe we were insignificant. Sometimes, all a child needs is encouragement, not humiliation. Zeros can destroy confidence. Mockery can kill interest. Once a student believes they're useless, they stop trying. Teachers, parents, and lecturers, let's revolutionize our approach. Let's stop tearing children down in the name of discipline. Let's start teaching with love, patience, and respect. We can build a brighter future because every child deserves a chance to thrive, not merely survive. For teachers, this is a crucial consideration. What if we could create a system that celebrates effort, fosters resilience, and empowers students to reach their full potential? What if we could inspire a love of learning that lasts a lifetime? The possibilities are endless, and it starts with a simple yet profound shift in our mindset.

For far too long, individuals with disabilities have faced systemic marginalization in our country. Yet, we possess the collective power to redefine our narrative and demand transformative change. By asserting our rights, advocating for our interests, and acknowledging our inherent value, we will demonstrate to our leaders the invaluable contributions we make to our nation's growth. It is time to recognize the significant social, economic, and political value that individuals with disabilities bring to our country. We have the right to advocate for our needs and refuse to settle for anything less. Wishing a joyous season to every individual with a disability in our community.