By Suleman Chitera

LILONGWE — Head of Maranatha Academy Ernest Kaonga has honoured his commitment to supporting the education of Duwana Muhammad, awarding the promising student a secondary school scholarship valued at K30 million.

Kaonga made the announcement on Wednesday during the second day of the 2026 National Youth Summit held at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, where Duwana’s educational journey has attracted attention and support from well-wishers.

Duwana, who emerged as the only girl from her school to sit for the Standard 8 examinations, has been recognised for her determination and commitment to education despite the challenges surrounding her schooling journey.

The K30 million scholarship will enable her to continue with her secondary education, providing financial support towards her studies and helping remove some of the barriers that could otherwise affect her educational progress.

Kaonga, who previously pledged to support Duwana, said he believes the young student has the potential to achieve great things if given the opportunity to pursue her education.

He said his decision to invest in Duwana’s education was driven by his belief in her abilities and the need to give talented young people the opportunity to realise their potential.

“I see a bright future in Duwana, and I want to support her so that she can achieve her dreams,” Kaonga said.

The education support does not end with secondary school.

Kaonga has also pledged a further K50 million scholarship for Duwana to pursue studies at Sharda University in India, opening the possibility of an international university education for the young Malawian.

The commitment has been widely viewed as an important investment in a young girl’s future and a demonstration of how individuals and institutions can contribute to expanding educational opportunities for deserving students.

Duwana’s story has also inspired other people to contribute towards her education.

Following growing public interest in her journey, various well-wishers have donated a combined K1.2 million to support her.

The donations demonstrate the impact that Duwana’s determination has had on members of the public, with supporters rallying behind her ambition to remain in school and build a better future through education.

Her journey has also brought renewed attention to the importance of supporting girls’ education, particularly for learners who demonstrate potential but may face financial or social barriers to continuing their studies.

The scholarships from Kaonga are therefore expected to provide Duwana with a stronger foundation as she progresses from primary education into secondary school and, ultimately, towards higher education.

The planned opportunity to study at Sharda University in India could further expose her to international academic and professional opportunities, depending on her future academic performance and admission requirements.

Duwana’s story is increasingly becoming an example of how determination, mentorship and community support can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.

For Kaonga, the scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They are an investment in a young Malawian whose potential he believes deserves to be nurtured.

As Duwana begins the next chapter of her education, the support from Kaonga and the K1.2 million contributed by well-wishers could provide the encouragement and resources she needs to pursue her ambitions.

Her journey also sends a powerful message to other young people across Malawi: talent and determination can open doors, especially when communities are willing to invest in the dreams of their children.