By Jones Gadama
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has vowed to make secondary education free, in addition to primary school education, if the party returns to power.
DPP Vice President for the Southern Region, Joseph Mwanamveka, made the promise while addressing a massive crowd at Chilimba grounds in Blantyre.
“We will make secondary education free, just like we did with primary school education,” Mwanamveka said, to thunderous applause from the crowd.
“Currently, primary school education isn’t truly free, as students are required to pay school fees, which undermines the principle of free education. We will ensure that both primary and secondary education are accessible to all Malawians without financial burdens,” mwanamveka stressed.
Mwanamveka also emphasized the DPP’s commitment to an open-door policy, inviting small political parties to form alliances with the party.
“We have an open door policy, where small political parties wishing to enter an alliance with us can do so,” he stated, adding that,”We believe in unity and collaboration, and we’re willing to work with any party that shares our vision for Malawi’s development.”
The DPP’s promise of free secondary education has been met with enthusiasm from the public, who are eager for a change in the country’s education system.
Many believe that making secondary education free will increase access to education, particularly for disadvantaged students.
“I’m thrilled to hear about the DPP’s plan to make secondary education free,” said one attendee, who wished to remain anonymous. “As a parent, I struggle to pay school fees for my children.
If the DPP can deliver on this promise, it will be a game-changer for many families in Malawi.”
Mwanamveka’s announcement comes on the back of the DPP’s recent electoral alliance with the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD).
The party expects to sign another electoral alliance soon, according to recent reports.
The DPP’s vision for education aligns with its broader goal of promoting economic development and stability in Malawi.
The party’s leadership has emphasized the importance of investing in human capital to drive economic growth and improve living standards.
In his speech, Mwanamveka highlighted the DPP’s achievements during its time in power and urged the people of Malawi to trust the party’s ability to lead the country towards economic development and stability.
“We are here because we believe in a return to leadership that delivers results,” he said, adding that,”The DPP has a track record of tangible development, and we are ready to take Malawi forward once again.”
The DPP’s promise of free secondary education is a significant policy initiative that could have far-reaching implications for Malawi’s education sector.
If implemented, it would increase access to education, particularly for disadvantaged students, and potentially boost the country’s human capital.
As the DPP continues to campaign on its promise of free secondary education, it’s clear that education is a key priority for the party.
Whether the party will deliver on its promise remains to be seen, but for now, its vision for education has resonated with many Malawians.
The DPP’s open-door policy for small parties is also seen as a strategic move to strengthen its position in the country’s politics.
By forming alliances with other parties, the DPP can pool resources, share expertise, and present a united front against its opponents.
The DPP’s pledge to make secondary education free and its open-door policy for small parties are significant developments in Malawi’s politics.
As the country heads towards the elections, it’s clear that education will be a key issue on the agenda.
The DPP’s promise to deliver free secondary education has sparked hope among many Malawians, who are eager for a better future for themselves and their children.
