Nonprofit Builds Computer Lab for Rural Malawi School
Students will now be able to acquire hands-on experience in word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, coding and internet research.
MZIMBA, Malawi— A nonprofit organization has built a computer lab worth K40 million at Enukweni Community Day Secondary School in Mzimba district, writes Alinafe Sambo.
The lab will serve over 400 students in the underserved rural area.
The organisation, Ulalo, in partnership with Groundbreaker, founded by St. George’s International Club e.V., constructed the state-of-the-art facility.
It aims to overcome the educational challenges facing Malawian youth.
Ulalo Executive Director James Gondwe said at a handover ceremony Friday that the lab will develop the country and advance education.
Since Malawi introduced computer studies as an exam subject in 2005, many schools, especially in rural areas, lack resources, he said.
“This computer lab will help address the crucial need for computer education in Malawi schools,” Gondwe said.
It will give students vital internet access to aid studies.
Before Thursday's handover, Ulalo trained teachers on lab maintenance and technology skills.
Teachers will now be able to provide hands-on computer education to students.
School Headmaster Binale Joseph Lusale thanked Ulalo, saying the lab will significantly boost student performance and e-learning.
“Learners will benefit immensely from the computers, and it will markedly improve grades,” he said.
Senior government education official Mathews Kapira said computer literacy is essential as “the world is going digital.” He welcomed the nonprofit's support of Malawi's underfunded schools, which often lack teaching resources.
Kapira said the government has struggled to provide computers and train teachers since making computing an exam subject in 2005.
As a result, the ratio of computers to students remains very low, hindering learning.
“This donation will go a long way in providing practical skills to students who previously only learned computing concepts in theory,” Kapira said.
“Computer education is crucial for youth to access digital content and new opportunities.”
Gabriele Pulvuermuller, a board member of St. George's International Club, said the project aims to empower African youth to become innovators who can develop themselves and their communities.
"In today's technology-driven world, computer skills open doors to further education and employment," Pulvuermuller said.
"We believe no student should be left behind for lack of access to computers."
The Enukweni computer lab has 25 desktops, 5 laptops, a photocopier, 2 projectors, full networking infrastructure, and satellite internet equipment.
Students will now be able to acquire hands-on experience in word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, coding and internet research.