Government Interns Left Unpaid for Two Months-Official Says Not Aware
Government internship program interns are still awaiting their allowances despite working for two months, causing financial difficulties.
LILONGWE, MALAWI — Government interns in Malawi have yet to receive their monthly allowances, causing financial challenges for the young graduates, writes Fallesy Chizombe.
The Ministry of Labour recruited over two thousand interns in June, promising a monthly amount of K80,000 in arrears.
However, the interns have allegedly not received their allowances since they began working two months ago.
In an interview, one intern who wished to remain anonymous, expressed her disappointment, stating, "Since June, I have not received the agreed monthly allowances."
Another intern working under the Ministry of Gender in Lilongwe, Paul Mvula, shared his struggles with transportation and daily expenses, remarking on the difficulty of managing his needs without the promised financial support.
Despite the interns' predicament, the Ministry of Labour claims to be unaware of the issue.
Principal Secretary Wezzie Kaira stated, "We have not received any complaints from the interns, and we were unaware that they haven't received their allowances."
The government internship programme aims to provide work-integrated experience to graduates under 35 years old, enhancing their employability.
The program's duration spans a maximum of 12 months, providing graduates with valuable skills and opportunities.
However, the delay in providing the agreed-upon allowances has left many interns in dire financial situations.
The interns await prompt action from the Ministry of Labour to address their concerns and ensure they receive the financial support they were promised.