With over 50 percent of the Zambian population under the age of 18, Zambia faces a daunting task when it comes to educating this remarkably large and young population. Locals sometimes joke that on any given weekday, half the country should be in school.

To Zambia’s credit, access to primary education is admirable, especially considering the rural population and the fact that most children have to walk to school. Compared to other low-to medium-income countries, Zambia ranks in the 64th percentile for access to primary education.