CERADI Supports Tiyamika Students for Exams in Women Empowerment Initiative
Group Village Head Puwere praised CERADI's gesture, noting its positive impact on over 224 students in T/A Simphasi.
MCHINJI, Malawi —The Center for Research and Development Initiative (CERADI), an NGO based in Mchinji, has provided examination fees for two junior students at Tiyamika (pvt) Secondary School, T/A Simphasi, due for January 2023, writes Gerald Fanuel.
Salafina Chowe, a beneficiary, expressed gratitude, stating, "I am very grateful to CERADI for the help rendered to me in the form of examination fees. It could have been a very difficult moment for me not to sit for this year's Junior Certificate examination."
Another student, Zelesi Chiwambo, concurred, highlighting the challenge of sourcing examination fees due to the school's free-tuition-fee basis.
Thanks to CERADI, they can now participate in this year's Junior Certificate examination.
CERADI's initiative is part of the Women and Girls Empowerment Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada through the Commonwealth of Learning.
The project aims to promote self-reliance among women and girls through education, both formal and informal.
Tambose Phiri, Executive Director of CERADI, shared that the initiative aligns with a broader goal to assist 448 students in the Simphasi and Kapondo areas.
The urgency arose when two learners were at risk of failing to register for the Junior Certificate Examinations this year.
"We lashed to help as it was for the good of the learners as well as part of the Women and Girls Empowerment project," Phiri stated.
Christopher Lemosi, Director of Tiyamika Education Center, commended CERADI for its support, emphasizing the school's free-tuition-fee basis for students from financially challenged backgrounds.
He urged well-wishers to help with tents or thatching materials, highlighting the lack of proper classrooms.
Lemosi added that the school operates on a voluntary basis, with dedicated teachers who receive no compensation.
Due to financial constraints, the school struggles to provide adequate teaching and learning materials.
Currently, the school has enrolled 44 students in form two, with 36 registering for Junior Certificate examinations.
Group Village Head Puwere expressed happiness with CERADI's assistance, emphasizing its positive impact on students lacking basic school necessities.
CERADI continues to identify learners for support with school learning materials up to junior level.
The process involves collaboration with school Management Committees, Parents Teachers Association, the School Committee, and Mothers care groups.