Tiyende Pamodzi Girls Secondary School: Empowering Girls Through Education
Tiyende Pamodzi Girls Secondary School distinguishes itself by incorporating vocational skills training into its curriculum, offering courses in tailoring, fashion design, and permaculture.
Dedza, Malawi - In a concerted effort to encourage and promote girl child education, Nazareth Foundation Malawi, together with a group of benevolent supporters, has established Tiyende Pamodzi Girls Secondary School in Mganja village, Traditional Authority Kachindamoto in Dedza district, writes Brenda Pensulo.
"This remarkable school, primarily dedicated to empowering girls, has been constructed with generous financial assistance from various international and local well-wishers, including the Goldner Foundation of Germany," stated Ineke Hendrix, project manager.
"While the school welcomes boys as well, its primary focus remains on providing quality education and opportunities for girls."
Recognizing the challenges faced by students who travel long distances to attend school, the Wheels4life Foundation recently provided bicycles to ease their mobility difficulties.
Additionally, the school has received a donation of laptops from three anonymous sponsors in Germany, ensuring that students have access to technology and are equipped for the digital world.
Despite facing initial opposition from some community members who expressed concerns about not benefiting directly from the sale of land to the donors, the project gained acceptance through open dialogue and engagement.
Today, the area boasts a flourishing secondary school.
Tiyende Pamodzi Girls Secondary School distinguishes itself by incorporating vocational skills training into its curriculum, offering courses in tailoring, fashion design, and permaculture.
"This holistic approach empowers girls with practical skills to enhance their employability and independence," remarked Maria Amin, a parent and school committee member from M'ganja village.
Regina Chipojola, a Form Four student, echoed Amin's sentiments, acknowledging the school's role in protecting girls from early marriages and pregnancies.
"I would prefer library and laboratories first because these are essential in the learning process," she emphasized, also highlighting the need for more local role models.
Chipojola encouraged her fellow students to seize the opportunities provided by the school and pursue their dreams.
"Take the vocational skills training seriously as a valuable asset for future employment," she advised.
Tiyende Pamodzi Girls Secondary School, established in January 2021, has emerged as a beacon of hope for girls in the region, providing them with access to quality education, empowering them with skills, and fostering their personal development.
The school serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the collective efforts to uplift and empower girls.