Study: Teacher Housing Crisis Hurts Rural Education in Northern Malawi
The study found most rural schools provide only two permanent houses for teachers, forcing many to live in temporary structures vulnerable to rainfall and weather damage.
KARONGA, Malawi — A lack of permanent housing for teachers threatens educational quality in rural Karonga district, according to a new civil society report presented to local education officials, writes Lusekero Mhango.
The study found most rural schools provide only two permanent houses for teachers, forcing many to live in temporary structures vulnerable to rainfall and weather damage.
"Teachers' motivation is low because of poor living conditions. This directly impacts the quality of education provided to learners in these areas," said Robert Sulungwe, governance coordinator at the Foundation for Community Support Services.
Principal Education Officer Sara Lungu confirmed that teachers frequently decline assignments to remote schools due to housing concerns.
"We appreciate this report as it highlights areas that require immediate attention and will guide future planning," Lungu said.
Education Service Committee Chair Mesheke Mwaijengo cited limited resources as a key obstacle to addressing the housing shortage in his Songwe Ward.
The assessment was conducted under USAID's Governance for Solutions project, which focuses on developing local solutions to community challenges.
The findings highlight ongoing infrastructure challenges facing Malawi's rural education system, where teacher retention remains a persistent concern.