On March 27, 2025, 73 Grade 9 students had the incredible opportunity to visit Parliament and they had an opportunity to witness the opening of the Nelly Mutti Creche, a groundbreaking initiative named after the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Nelly Mutti. This special creche is designed to provide high-quality childcare for Members of Parliament, particularly female MPs, allowing them to balance their responsibilities at Parliament with the demands of parenthood.
The day began with a tour of the Parliament building, where the students were introduced to the legislative process and the important role that Parliament plays in shaping national policies. The tour provided the pupils with an understanding of how laws are made and the significance of Parliament in the governance of Zambia. It was a valuable learning experience that helped the students appreciate the importance of democratic institutions and the work done by elected officials.
The highlight of the trip was the opening ceremony of the Nelly Mutti Creche, a facility aimed at offering reliable, safe, and professional childcare services to the children of MPs. The creche will particularly benefit female Members of Parliament, many of whom juggle their parliamentary duties with the challenges of raising young children. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for women in leadership positions.
At the opening, Hon. Nelly Mutti, along with other prominent political figures, delivered speeches emphasizing the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women in the political sphere. The creche is a testament to the commitment of the National Assembly to support its female MPs and ensure that they can perform their duties effectively while also caring for their children. The creche will provide a much-needed space for MPs to leave their children in a safe and caring environment, enabling them to focus on their work without worrying about their children’s well-being.
The students were inspired by the speeches and learned about the positive impact such initiatives can have on both the individuals directly involved and society as a whole. They were also given an opportunity to ask questions about the creche and its role in enhancing the work-life balance for female MPs. The pupils were deeply impressed by the foresight and commitment of the government in addressing the specific needs of female leaders.
In addition to attending the opening ceremony, the students participated in interactive discussions, gaining a greater understanding of how government policies and initiatives are designed to foster equality and support diversity in leadership. They also explored the Parliament building further, learning about the legislative process and how MPs contribute to shaping the future of the country.
The trip was not only an educational experience but also a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women in leadership. By ensuring that female MPs have access to quality childcare, the National Assembly is making strides toward creating a more inclusive and equal society. The students left the event with a deeper understanding of the role of government in shaping public policies that benefit all citizens, particularly women and children.
This visit to Parliament and the Nelly Mutti Creche opening left a lasting impression on the students, who now have a greater appreciation for the importance of such initiatives in promoting gender equality and supporting women in leadership roles. It was a memorable and inspiring experience that will undoubtedly encourage many of them to consider the role of public service in shaping a better future for all.