NGO Combats Child Marriages in Msundwe, Donates School Supplies to Students

This collaborative effort by SEI, CLI, and CECOYD demonstrates a strong commitment to combating child marriages and promoting education for vulnerable students in Msundwe.

Some of the beneficiaries after receiving their school learning materials

Lilongwe, Malawi - The Sunhawk Energy International (SEI), in collaboration with Child Legacy International (CLI) project and the Centre for Concerned Youth in Development (CECOYD), both non-governmental organizations operating in the outskirts of Lilongwe, have made a significant contribution towards the fight against child marriages, writes Brian Augustus Kanyenda.

On Wednesday, they donated various school learning materials to over 100 learners from different secondary and primary schools in the area of Senior Chief Kalolo.

The donated materials, which included school bags, exercise books, soap, and other assorted items, aim to address the challenges faced by young people during their studies.

William Banda, Director of Operations at SEI, emphasized the project's goal of empowering young people through education and ensuring they have the necessary support to continue their studies.

"We are determined to rescue as many young people as possible from marriages, particularly girls, and encourage them to return to school. Our aim is to empower them through education and create an educated and sustainable village," stated Banda.

Prior to this initiative, many learners in the area struggled to access school fees and other essential learning materials.

The organizations recognized this need and stepped in to provide support, encouraging continued education.

Banda highlighted the success of the program in reaching over 150 students from primary, secondary, and university levels, emphasizing its role in providing quality education to deserving students.

Banda called upon more companies and organizations to join hands in supporting students facing economic challenges that may lead to dropping out of school.

Expressing gratitude, he acknowledged the coordination efforts of parents, chiefs, and development committees in selecting deserving students for assistance.

The Chairperson of the Area Development Committee (ADC) for Mapuyu South, Billy Makombe, commended SEI and CECOYD for their initiative, acknowledging the positive impact it has had on students' access to school fees and learning materials.

Makombe stated, "This project is a game-changer in the area of Senior Chief Kalolo, and its impact cannot be overemphasized. Many children who were at risk of dropping out of school can now access quality education in good schools."

Beneficiaries of the program, such as Grevazio Mphatso from Ming'ongo CDSS and Regina Sataya from Mdzobwe CDSS, expressed their joy upon receiving the donations.

They credited the organization's support for their improved academic performance.

The Youth Empowerment through Supportive Education (YESE) project, established in 2017 to support education and health for boys and girls in the area of Senior Chief Kalolo, has already made a significant impact on approximately 150 young people.

As a result, 15 students have successfully graduated from various public and private universities.

This collaborative effort by SEI, CLI, and CECOYD demonstrates a strong commitment to combating child marriages and promoting education for vulnerable students in Msundwe.

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