Suleman Chitera, Rumphi, Malawi
Aspiring Member of Parliament for Rumphi Central Constituency and UTM Party presidential advisor, Dr. Matthews Mtumbuka, has vowed to champion a law that reserves university entry slots for students from Community Day Secondary Schools (CDSS), if elected in the September parliamentary by-election.
Dr. Mtumbuka made the pledge during farewell ceremonies for Form Four students at Lundu and Chikwawa CDSS, where he was the guest of honour. He lamented what he described as an “unbalanced and elitist” university selection system that predominantly favours learners from urban and national secondary schools.
“This has been my fight for years. If elected, I’ll turn it into law,” Mtumbuka declared to thunderous applause. “Students from rural areas are just as intelligent and hardworking. It’s only fair that we give them a guaranteed shot at higher education.”
He said the quota-based proposal aims to inspire hope among marginalized learners and restore faith in public education, particularly in under-resourced CDSS institutions.
Dr. Mtumbuka also commended teachers at the two schools for their dedication under challenging circumstances. “Your efforts are not in vain. You are shaping the leaders of tomorrow with the barest of resources, and for that, we salute you,” he said.
Turning to the students, Mtumbuka urged them to reject the narrative that academic success is reserved for those from privileged backgrounds. “Coming from a CDSS is no shame—you are just as capable,” he said.
The proposal has since been warmly received by parents and community members, with many describing it as a potential game-changer for education equity in Malawi.
One parent, Margaret Moyo, said: “If implemented, this will uplift our children and give them a reason to dream big. It’s long overdue.”
The Rumphi Central seat became vacant earlier this year, and the upcoming by-election has drawn national attention, with education reform emerging as a major campaign issue.
