Takenolab Commends Dowa District Council for Advancing Youth Development
The organization purposely excluded examination classes to avoid disruptions and received requests from teachers for computer training to stay up-to-date.
Dowa, Malawi – Takenolab, an organisation spearheading the implementation of the Malawi Digital Program in Dowa district, has expressed its gratitude to the Dowa District Council for their collaborative efforts in shaping a brighter future for the youth in the region, writes Vincent Gunde.
Based at Dzaleka Refugee Camp-Lilambwe Village in the area of Senior Chief Msakambewa, Takenolab lauded the year 2023 as a significant milestone for the Digital Malawi Project in Dowa district, with a particular focus on training Dowa students in website development.
At a recent meeting held at the Boma, the project's team leader, Deborah Ntakirutimana, provided an update on the progress of the Digital Malawi Project to the Dowa District executive committee (Dec).
She reported that a total of 93 students from the district had been trained in computer use and website development at its central office.
Ntakirutimana stated that the final cohort for 2023 is currently underway and will continue until the end of November 2023. She noted that the project's outreach to local schools had extended to all 8 schools surrounding the Chigudu zone from August to September 2023.
The project's achievements included training 48 pupils from Chigudu Primary School, 43 from Mwangala Primary School, 75 from Thedze, 62 from Mtenthela, 52 from Mkanga, 59 from Kapatamoyo, and 52 and 58 pupils from Mcheza and Golong'ozi Community Day Secondary Schools (CDSS), respectively.
Furthermore, Ntakirutimana revealed that the project had expanded to the Nalunga zone since October 2, 2023, engaging four additional schools: Nalunga Primary and Secondary School, Windu Primary School, and Kanyanyata Primary School.
"We are committed to further expanding and empowering the youth of Dowa district," Ntakirutimana affirmed.
Despite remarkable successes, Ntakirutimana acknowledged that the project had encountered challenges, including fuel scarcity, a national issue.
However, Takenolab adapted by organizing weekend practical lessons to prevent students from missing regular classes.
The organization's dedicated team ensured the delivery of high-quality computer training.
The team leader emphasized that the project had adhered to its program schedules, demonstrating a commitment to empowering Dowa students with essential computer skills.
Ntakirutimana highlighted that the project had received positive feedback from students in standards 5 to 7 and form I and 3.
The organization purposely excluded examination classes to avoid disruptions and received requests from teachers for computer training to stay up-to-date.
In her remarks, Dowa District Council's Director of Planning and Development, Mecry Mpakule, appealed to all partners implementing various interventions in the district to share progress reports of their projects.
This request aimed to promote cooperation, transparency, and accountability.
Takenolab's collaboration with Dowa District Council is contributing to the holistic development of youth, equipping them with valuable digital skills and knowledge for a brighter future in the digital age.