Youth Group Tackles Mangochi's Class Size Problem with 60 New Classrooms
MANGOCHI, Malawi- Addressing the high student-teacher ratio in Mangochi, Youth for Development and Productivity (YODEP) is constructing 60 classrooms across public primary schools, alleviating the burden of learning under trees, writes Beartha Gama.
Complementing government efforts, YODEP recently handed over the newly built Namavi full primary school, a K290 million project funded by the Malawi Community Hubs.
This initiative benefits students in Majawa Village, who previously faced long distances and harsh learning conditions, contributing to high dropout rates.
YODEP Executive Director Mac Blessings Buda explains, "Our mandate is to ensure all children access quality education, which was the need for Majawa communities."
The school, operational since September 2023, boasts eight blocks serving over 2,000 students.
Sifati Wasi, a parent, expresses gratitude, "Our children can now learn uninterrupted, even during rain," echoing concerns about previous struggles under trees.
Benjamin Chidothi, whose daughter dropped out due to distance, shares, "The new school is a welcome development. My daughter rejoined in Standard 5."
Senior Chief Chowe acknowledges the timely intervention, "Education is vital. Many children dropped out or never started due to distance. YODEP's work will ensure access for all."
Labson Kawalala, Director of Education, Youth and Sports in Mangochi, commends YODEP's support for the government's education goals.
YODEP strives to empower children and young people through education, livelihood improvement, health initiatives, and skill building.
Their efforts, exemplified by Namavi school, are transforming education in Mangochi and paving the way for a brighter future for its youth.