Malawi Child Rights Campaign Takes Aim at School Corporal Punishment
The effort includes training programs for educators on alternative discipline methods and workshops to raise awareness about children's rights.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Child rights advocates launched a nationwide campaign against abuse Wednesday, targeting traditional disciplinary practices in schools amid rising concerns over student safety, writes Tionge Hara.
The "Say No to Child Abuse" initiative, announced at a press briefing in the capital, aims to eliminate corporal punishment and establish stronger protections for Malawi's children.
Memory Chisenga, a leading child rights activist, highlighted instances of severe injuries resulting from physical discipline, particularly in Christian schools.
"This campaign is not just about raising awareness; it's about creating a society that values and protects its children," Chisenga told AfricaBrief.
"We need to recognize that every child has the right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from abuse and violence."
The campaign calls for schools to adopt alternative disciplinary methods that promote positive behaviour while respecting children's rights.
Chisenga urged educational authorities to abandon physical punishment, which she said can "hinder their education and overall well-being."
"Every child deserves to be protected, and it's our collective responsibility to ensure that they are," Chisenga said.
The initiative has gained support from government officials, civil society organisations, and community leaders.
Organisers expect the campaign to spark nationwide discussions about strengthening child protection measures and preventing abuse.
Campaign leaders plan to work with schools to develop new disciplinary guidelines and improve reporting mechanisms for abuse incidents.
The effort includes training programs for educators on alternative discipline methods and workshops to raise awareness about children's rights.
Child protection advocates report an increase in abuse cases across Malawi, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of existing laws and enhanced monitoring of educational institutions.
The campaign launch coincides with growing international pressure on countries to ban corporal punishment in schools, with child rights organisations citing research linking physical discipline to negative educational and psychological outcomes.