BEFIT Program Boosts Education Standards in Malawi's Mzimba District
The government aims to reach 3.8 million children in 6,000 public primary schools by 2028, up from the initial 300,000 students in 500 schools.
MZIMBA, Malawi— Education authorities in Mzimba North are praising the government's Building Education Foundations through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) program for improving educational standards in the district, writes Victor Musongole.
During an open day at Holera Primary School on Friday, local NGO Ulalo showcased how BEFIT helps students in grades 1-4 use tablets for literacy and numeracy lessons.
Ziyisa Munthali, headmistress at Holera Primary, attributed increased pass rates and reduced absenteeism to the program.
"The pass rate has increased from 86% to 94%, and absenteeism has decreased. Students enjoy the tablet sessions and can read and write at their own pace," Munthali said.
Christopher Banda, a fourth-grade student, confirmed that the tablet sessions enhance their understanding of numeracy and literacy.
Sam Tembo, Education Quality Assurance Officer for the Northern Education Division, called for more partners while noting challenges.
"Improper handling of materials, lack of planning, and community support are some drawbacks, but Holera Primary is doing extremely well," Tembo said.
Mzimba District's Director of Education, Youth and Sports, Mercy Kayuni, emphasized the importance of a proper foundation while lamenting the lack of suitable learning environments in some schools.
Aaron Manda, Ulalo's District Programs Supervisor in Mzimba North, highlighted the collaboration between government, parents, and implementers.
"We've trained 395 teachers in 48 schools and over 2,000 community leaders in Mzimba North," Manda said.
The government aims to reach 3.8 million children in 6,000 public primary schools by 2028, up from the initial 300,000 students in 500 schools.
Ulalo, founded in 2012 to help youth reach their educational potential, is implementing BEFIT in 99 public primary schools in Mzimba. During the event, students demonstrated tablet use for education officials and parents.
The Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to expanding digital education as part of Malawi2063.