Written piece
The ABT/English
Charles William Zulu
Zambia
About this piece
Foundational Literacy is key to every child’s education journey. Through Zambia’s Catch Up Programme, learners gain confidence step by step. This poem uses animal characters to show that with support, perseverance, and practice, every child can learn and thrive
The Ant and the Baobab Tree (The ABT)
(A Foundational Literacy Poem Inspired by the Catch Up Programme in Zambia)
Under a giant baobab tree,
An ant named Thandi cried,
“Oh dear me!
The letters dance,
the words run away,
I cannot read them every day.”
A wise old owl looked down with care,
And said, “Young ant,
Do not despair.
Step by step,
And day by day,
Catch Up will help you find your way.”
A busy bee buzzed,
“I once was slow,
But now I read wherever I go.
Small steps helped my learning grow,
Just like flowers in a row.”
A playful rabbit hopped with pride,
“Numbers used to make me hide.
Now I count with confidence and cheer while jumping,
Because Catch Up is play-based learning.
I am excited to learn in my local language.”
The river sang,
“Keep moving on!”
The morning sun replied,
“Be strong!”
The trees all clapped their leafy hands,
As children learned across the lands.
Soon, Ant Thandi stood up tall,
Reading stories for one and all.
The owl smiled,
“Now you can see,
Learning grows like a mighty tree.”
Catch Up helps every child shine,
All means All!
One small step at a time.
Together we read and count. Together we grow.
Together we learn through play. Together we glow!