Early Childhood Center Boosts Education in Malawi Village
The success of the Mutu CBCC highlights the potential impact of early childhood education in improving overall educational outcomes in rural Malawi.
LILONGWE, Malawi— A community-based childcare center (CBCC) in Mutu Village, Lilongwe, is making strides in improving school performance and reducing dropout rates since its founding in 2004, writes Martha Nakhate.
The CBCC, established by Rodger Feder in Area 51 of Traditional Authority Mtema, has proven effective in preparing children for primary education.
Local educators report a significant decrease in students repeating classes since the center's opening.
Mercy Masoatengenji, deputy head of John C Thomas primary school, praised the CBCC's impact.
"Children transitioning from the center are more intelligent and sociable," Masoatengenji said.
"They already know how to hold a pencil, write, and read letters."
Despite its success, the center faces challenges. Masoatengenji highlighted the lack of sustainable support for feeding programs, which can lead to dropouts as students accustomed to meals at the CBCC struggle with their absence in primary school.
Florence Paul, a caregiver at the CBCC, confirmed these challenges.
She noted that teacher numbers have dropped from 10 to two due to lack of financial support for volunteers.
Paul also requested help in building a fence to improve school security.
Dr. Chikondi Mpokosa, a General Assembly Member, promised to relay these concerns to relevant authorities, including the ministries of gender and social welfare, and education.
Mpokosa urged the community to initiate improvements while waiting for stakeholder intervention.
Group Village Headman Khombe pledged continued community support for the school and cooperation with government and stakeholders.
The success of the Mutu CBCC highlights the potential impact of early childhood education in improving overall educational outcomes in rural Malawi.
However, it also underscores the need for sustained support to overcome persistent challenges in the education sector.