By Brighton Tchongwe
The Ministry of Education has announced the launch of new secondary and tertiary bursary support aimed at eliminating inter-generational poverty in families and next generation across the country.
Speaking during the launch held in Lilongwe, Jennings Kayira, Education Division Manager for the North said that CAMFED Malawi is a key partner in complementing governments efforts to provide education services to underprivileged children, promoting their well-being and intellectual development.
According to Kayira this project also supports the country to realise its development blueprint Malawi 2063, where among others focuses on skills and human capital development.
Kayira noted that the introduction of these scholarships demonstrates CAMFED’s commitment to promoting key national education strategy objectives, especially in expanding equitable access to education and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Through a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU), the Ministry of Education will provide ongoing technical support and create a conducive environment for CAMFED to continue its work, which includes comprehensive economic and social support.
“I am delighted that CAMFED and the Ministry of Education are reviewing the memorandum of understanding, which will strengthen our partnership, collaboration, and accountability. I am confident this MoU will foster trust and renewed commitment,” said Kayira.
He commended CAMFED for its unique approach to providing comprehensive bursaries, aligning with the national education sector investment plan that aims to increase equitable access to secondary education, particularly for girls, vulnerable groups, and those from rural areas.
Kayira pledged government’s commitment to ensuring education for all by creating well-resourced and supportive learning environments that enhance girls’ retention and outcomes.
On his part, McKnight Kalanda, Board Chairperson for CAMFED Malawi called for concerted efforts among all stakeholdersincluding government, the private sector, civil society, and communitiesto ensure the success of the bursary program.
He revealed that CAMFED is implementing a new investment plan targeting to reach 5 million girls by 2030 as part of its goals.
“We stand on the threshold of a brighter future for thousands of young girls and women in Malawi. By supporting these bursaries, we equip them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become the leaders of tomorrow.
However, the future of these girls and our nation depends on all of us. Together, we must ensure that no girl is left behind and that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a better world,” Kalanda stated.
Susan Silika, Executive Director of CAMFED Malawi, reiterated the organization’s commitment to working with the government and stakeholders to increase access to quality education for young girls.
“Additionally, the social support that often accompanies bursariessuch as mentorship, networking, and access to academic resources, fosters a sense of belonging and motivation. This support system not only boosts their confidence but also creates an environment where students can thrive academically, leading to improved performance and greater success in their studies,” Silika explained.
One beneficiary, 2nd Lieutenant Racheal Banda of the Malawi Defence Force thanked the organization for the bursary support, saying that the program changed her life and enabled her to pursue her dream of becoming a soldier.
“I dropped out of secondary school when my mother passed away, but CAMFED helped me complete both my secondary and tertiary studies,” Banda shared.
Founded in 1993, CAMFED Malawi is an international non-governmental organization that supports the education of rural girls.
The organization has expanded its operations to Ghana, Zambia, Tanzania, and Malawi, and currently works in all 34 education districts, 6 education divisions, and operates in 3,319 primary schools, 430 secondary schools, and 86 universities and colleges across the country.
