Patience Kavalo
Lucia Mpatanguwo, a passionate and dedicated rural youth champion from the Mkondowe Youth Network, recently led a visit to New Salawe School —a rural institution facing high student dropout rates. Most of these dropouts leave school in pursuit of fishing related livelihoods — driven by the immediate need to earn money or support their families. Peer pressure also plays a role, particularly when students see their peers getting married at a young age and perceive this as a more attractive and attainable future rather than continued schooling.
Joined by fellow youth network members, Lucia engaged with learners at New Salawe School directly, encouraging them to remain committed to their education. During their visit, they engaged students in discussions about the value of education and the risks of early marriage and child labor.
Looking beyond the classroom, the group has planned a follow-up initiative: a day dedicated to visiting the homes of students who have already dropped out. Partnering with a local child protection worker, the team will speak with parents to raise awareness about the lasting impacts of early dropout and explore ways to re-integrate children into the education system.
This initiative forms part of a broader effort to empower young people and strengthen community support for education in rural areas.