Inverness County Cares in Zambia: # 53 February 11th, 2026 Hats and Canes

Colleen started off her day with her group of student helpers. Today they learned how to play a dice game called ‘Pig’ and another called ‘Tenzies.’ They caught on very quickly and their laughter soon rang through the room. Both of these games include a bit of chance and some suspense. The games are important for they include counting by sight and quick recall of the math facts. It will definitely enhance their math skills. When asked their favourite game so far, the all said dominoes.

She moved outside and was honored to experience an event more exciting than the Olympics. Each child was given a bucket hat and the totally bind students were given white canes which after training, will increase their mobility and confidence. She then visited classrooms where they were excitedly using the newly acquired 3D braille supports. If only all the children had access to a personal set!

Charlotte was with Mr. Chisimbe, a teacher who is totally blind. She read an English text, the only one in class, followed by comprehension questions. There are 12 students, with 4 blind and the others were of varying degrees of visual impairment. They were not taking notes in braille or on paper, just listening. This class started at 8:50 and ended 10:20. Mr. Chisembe knows his class very well, knowing each voice and personalities. Discipline is never an issue.

The Johns met with the contractor who did the boys ablution building, they noted that sinks weren’t in and a drain needed to be repaired. They will do work tomorrow. John and John met with Goodson the electrician to diagnose electrical problems in the electric pots in the kitchen.

Winnie was in the kitchen early and she and her crew made some very delicious pizzas. They turned out quite well despite oven fluctuations and using an unfamiliar oven.

Betty Jane was in the music room all day with Paul. He is learning how to teach music on as many instruments as possible. Xavier a visually impaired teacher is very interested in music. He remembered lessons Betty Jane had taught him two years ago. The grade 9 boys stopped by and to learn violin. Someone discovered the harmonicas and had so much fun trying how to blow both in and out. They have learned so much so fast. They have to listen and feel where to put their fingers.

In the afternoon more blind students had their first encounter with the new braille assists. They were so excited to be able to have actual physical learning materials, that are fun to use. In the later afternoon some ICC members who weren’t tied up elsewhere joined in with the children’s games. Charlotte showed them how to blow with a blade of grass and make such interesting sounds. ‘Steal the Bottle’ was a hit, a simple game where everyone steals from two friend’s cache of bottles until they have three bottles Simple games with very little equipment. St Agnes gave out bucket hats to all, team jerseys and white canes to the totally blind.

Mass of Holy Chrism was celebrated form 4:00-6:30 with a great deal of singing and movement.