Efforts to Reduce School Dropout Rates Bear Fruit in Mzimba
Traditional leader Inkosi Kampingo Sibande emphasized the role of chiefs in ensuring access to quality education in the area.
Malawi: Authorities in Mzimba have been successful in reducing the school dropout rate, according to recent statistics from Mzimba South Education, writes Alinafe Sambo.
The decrease in dropouts, mainly among students aged 14 to 18, can be attributed to initiatives involving mother groups, collaborations with parents and organizations, and the responsibilities of local chiefs.
Statistics from Mzimba South Education Zone have shown a decrease in school dropout rates, which have been attributed to various initiatives, including mother groups and community collaboration.
In 2022, the zone registered 5,020 cases of dropouts, a difference of 98 cases compared to 5,118 in 2021.
"We are happy that we have managed to bring back students who dropped out of school for various reasons by working in collaboration with the community and the mother groups," said Thandi Mangani, Head Teacher of Kazengo Primary School in the district.
Traditional leader Inkosi Kampingo Sibande emphasized the role of chiefs in ensuring access to quality education in the area.
"As chiefs, we also have a huge responsibility to make sure that our district is doing well in education and that every child has access to quality education in the area," said Sibande.
Parents and education networks have also been working to address challenges that contribute to the dropout rate, such as long distances, a lack of school fees, and poverty.
"We are working day and night to make sure that the cases of dropout are being reduced in our area," said Moses Nkhana, Secretary for Mzimba District Education Network (MZIDEN).
"We will also try to make sure that students have access to bursary funding without difficulties."
Madalitso Msowoya, a parent from Andrea Jere village, commented on the shared responsibility of ensuring equal access to education.
"Mzimba being one of the districts where most adults trek to South Africa and leave their families behind, we have always taken upon ourselves the responsibility of making sure that every child has equal access to education," said Msowoya.
Victor Chikoti, a local education commentator, praised the efforts of the communities.
"The initiatives have the power to improve education in the district and ensure equal access to education for all children,” he said.