By Mabvuto Kalawa, Malawi News Network Correspondent
A nation cannot develop unless its citizens are well educated and the government invests adequately in the education sector. The same principle applies to churches and organizations, which depend on knowledgeable people to manage their affairs. As the saying goes, a blind person cannot lead another blind person without both falling into a ditch. That proverb holds true for nations, churches, and institutions alike.
Mrs. Sylvia Chibowa of Balaka, a retired teacher, said part of the problem lies in the frequent changes to the curriculum. She recalled that when she began teaching, the syllabus was stable, relevant, and rooted in Malawian culture. She also pointed to the introduction of free primary education as a factor that, while well-intentioned, has contributed to declining learner performance. “It is painful to see learners today who cannot speak English or write a simple composition,” she said. She added that the dawn of multiparty politics had further weakened standards.
A parent from the same community echoed the concern, saying it was disheartening to see learners underperforming. She attributed this to some teachers lacking proper qualifications and to learners themselves not working hard, preferring instead to mimic modern culture.
Another parent, Mr. Louis Ephraim, argued that Malawi’s low literacy levels stem from the politicization of education. He recalled the introduction of free primary school in 1994, noting it was rolled out without adequate planning for classrooms, trained teachers, and parental involvement. “The education sector lacks seriousness from the concerned parties,” he said. “We need to change our policies, and our politicians must show political will.”Nathenje Chiefs Warn Against Employing Children as Herdsmen
A primary education advisor for M’manga Zone, speaking anonymously, said many learners do not see education as a tool for development. “Even when you encourage them to study, they do not take it seriously,” he said. “We need stiffer measures to instill discipline and purpose.”
A recent report released by the National Statistical Office shows that 75% of Malawians cannot read or write. This remains the case despite years of donations and grants from development partners. The figures are a wake-up call for government, communities, and stakeholders to take education seriously if Malawi is to develop.Communities in Nathenje Begin Accessing FISP Inputs
As the old saying goes, if you think education is expensive, try ignorance. A nation with uneducated citizens cannot progress. Development is not the government’s job alone—it requires everyone to play their part.
