By: Stephanus Pombili
Shapwa Lucia’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and professional growth, an inspiring
journey shaped by education and service.
Today, she stands proudly as a civil servant and a qualified junior primary teacher, but her path to stability and fulfillment was built through dedication, patience, and the solid foundation she received from the International University of Management (IUM).
After completing her studies, Lucia began her career in education through a temporary teaching position, which she held for one year. Like many young professionals, her early days were marked by uncertainty, resilience, and determination. Yet, within only a few months after completing her temporary contract, she secured a permanent teaching position, an achievement that speaks volumes about her competence, work ethic, and preparedness for the profession.
For her, this transition was not merely a career milestone; it was confirmation that her education had truly equipped her for the realities of the classroom and public service. Lucia proudly describes herself as a civil servant shaped by purpose, service, and education, and as a product of IUM, where she graduated with a Diploma in Education (Junior Primary).
Her decision to pursue teaching was driven by a deep desire to serve her community and contribute meaningfully to national development. She understood early on that education, particularly in the early years, is the backbone of any strong society. Teaching, for her, was not a fallback option, but a calling.
At IUM, Lucia was equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective teaching. The Diploma in Education (Junior Primary) programme shaped her into a patient, reflective, and child-centred educator.
Beyond learning how to teach literacy and numeracy, she was trained to nurture values, confidence, discipline, and curiosity among young learners. Teaching practice, lesson planning, classroom management, and inclusive education were not abstract concepts, but lived experiences that prepared her for real classrooms. This practical exposure gave her the confidence to enter the profession ready to serve with competence and compassion.
Entering the civil service marked a defining chapter in her journey. As a public servant within the
education system, Lucia embraced the responsibility of serving with integrity, accountability, and dedication. Each school day became an opportunity to apply what she had learned at IUM while contributing to national goals in education and child development. To her, teaching is more than a job; it is a service to learners, parents, and the broader community.
Being both an IUM graduate and a civil servant has instilled in her discipline, professionalism, and a strong sense of duty. She takes pride in knowing that her work impacts children at their most formative stage, shaping not only academic outcomes, but character and self-belief. Her journey reflects continuous growth, lifelong learning, and an unwavering commitment to improving herself so that she can better serve others.
In her own words, she is “a product of IUM, a servant of the people, and an educator by calling, dedicated to shaping the future, one child at a time.”
Lucia’s decision to study at IUM was intentional. She was drawn to the institution’s strong emphasis on child-centred learning and its focus on producing well-rounded, reflective educators. The programme’s attention to how young children learn and develop, through inclusive, play-based, and inquiry-driven approaches aligned perfectly with her passion for junior primary education. Equally important was the practical nature of the programme, which provided early and continuous classroom exposure, allowing her to connect theory with real teaching practice.
Reflecting on her student life at IUM, Lucia describes it as a transformative experience. From the moment she stepped onto campus, she felt part of a community that valued academic excellence, personal growth, and global exposure.
The diverse, international student body broadened her worldview and enriched classroom discussions, while group projects and networking opportunities strengthened her collaboration skills.
The lecturers at IUM left a lasting impression on her journey. Their academic expertise, real-
world experience, and commitment to linking theory with practice ensured that learning was relevant and impactful. Beyond academics, IUM encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone through extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, and student engagement, helping her build confidence and lifelong friendships.
Today, Shapwa Lucia’s journey stands as a powerful testimony to the impact of quality education. Her success affirms IUM’s role in producing competent, employable, and service-
driven graduates.
She is not only a teacher, but a symbol of what is possible when passion meets preparation – a proud IUM product serving the nation with dedication and heart.
