From 20th to 25th October, Crucible Lusaka held its first Liberal Arts Week, a week unlike any other in the school calendar. For six days, normal lessons gave way to an immersive experience in thinking, creating, and questioning. Students, teachers, and staff came together to explore what it means to be an educated and engaged citizen in Zambia and in the world.
At its heart, Liberal Arts Week celebrated the purpose of liberal education: to cultivate critical thinking, curiosity, and imagination. Each morning began with shared discussions around great ideas and enduring questions. Guided by the Socratic method, students learned to ask, challenge, and reflect, deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Among the central texts was Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, which sparked powerful debates about perception, truth, and enlightenment. Students explored what it means to “see clearly” in their own lives and communities—and how education can help bring light to the world.
A visit to the National Assembly offered students a firsthand look at Zambia’s democratic institutions and prompted lively discussions about governance and representation.
Building on this experience, students worked in groups to imagine a new Zambian constitution, crafting bold ideas for a society grounded in justice, equity, and participation.
Creativity flowed throughout the week as students expressed their reflections through original short plays and songs, weaving together themes of freedom, truth, and collective responsibility. These performances captured the essence of the week: that learning is not only intellectual, but also deeply human and expressive.
What made the experience truly special was its community spirit. Teachers and non-teaching staff joined students in every session, reading, questioning, and discovering together. This shared journey blurred the lines between teaching and learning, showing that wisdom grows best in dialogue and collaboration.
As one student reflected, “Liberal Arts Week reminded us that education is about more than passing exams, it’s about learning how to think, how to care, and how to imagine a better Zambia.”
In every discussion, performance, and shared moment, Liberal Arts Week reaffirmed Crucible Lusaka’s belief that education should not just inform minds, but transform lives.
At Crucible, we believe education is about more than academics, it’s about leadership, collaboration, and character. Follow our publication to stay updated on how our students are preparing to become pioneering leaders for a prosperous Zambia.
Find out how to apply to Crucible Lusaka
As we move forward, we remain committed to widening access to this level of academic opportunity to more passionate young people. To join us at Crucible Lusaka visit our website to learn how to apply.
All successful candidates will receive a full scholarship
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