One of the vital components for the successful support of FOF’s vulnerable children are the Implementers. These men and women act as FOF program coordinators and leaders in the care, provision and oversight of each child at their Centre. Once or twice each year, a week long training course is provided by FOF so that these Implementers and the Centres they represent can benefit from learning of new agricultural techniques, government programs, nutrition and health opportunities as well as providing us with updates of the status of the children at their Centre.
For the week long training, about 100 Implementers will arrive at the Skills Training Centre (STC) in Kitwe, where they will sleep, eat and learn before returning to their Centres with their newly gained knowledge. As the implementers are spread out over many miles and rarely have a chance to meet, the week together at the STC is also an opportunity to get acquainted, share ideas, and discuss the issues they face as well as encourage one another as part of the greater FOF Team.
Photo of one group of Implementers in a classroom
The theme for this week’s seminar was “Developing our Communities through Agriculture.” In addition to presenting gardening techniques, crop varieties, chicken and goat care, the maintenance of the trees that were planted one year ago and the new trees that were just recently planted in December was highlighted. New policies which the Government has introduced along with explanations of Government expectations were discussed.
The continued care of the children is a focal point during the week as Faith discusses the health, nutrition and educational needs and responds to the issues Implementers may have. She spends time with each implementer to encourage them in their work on behalf of the children of FOF.
Photo of Implementers in a small group training session just for women
It is also at this time when the implementers present reports to Faith on behalf of their centre. These reports update the database for each child in their centre and, together with Faith, the prospective students who will study at the STC in the coming year are chosen.
In your prayer time for the FOF children and staff, please remember our Implementers who engage the children on a daily basis. These men and women are volunteers, receiving no pay for looking after the orphans in their centres as they have a genuine love and concern for their welfare.
Photo of Implementers in a small group training study
A core component of each day for all Implementers at the Training Seminar is the Bible teaching and training. FOF is a practical demonstration of Our Lord’s love, faithfulness and provision to His children and a witness to those here in Zambia that hear of the work and impact of FOF on the lives of the vulnerable children. Please continue to pray for the children, the Centres and also for the leadership of FOF, we need His hand to guide us for another 25 years and more!
We hope this report gives you an idea of the content and importance of the week long Implementer Training Seminar.
(article based on a report from Faith Liyena)
