Patience Kavalo
Stakeholders in Nkhota-kota district have commended the Forum for African Women Educationalists in Malawi (FAWEMA) for bridging the gap that previously existed between education authorities and youth structures in the district. This follows the implementation of the Kuyenda Project, which seeks to promote rural youths’ right to education.
Nkhota-kota Chief Education Officer, Mr. Willard Magunda, emphasised the need to build the capacity of young people to advocate for quality education in the district. He reaffirmed his commitment to improving education, including incorporating youth input into planning and implementation.
Magunda further noted that since youths constitute the majority of the population—many of whom are of school-going age—interacting with them is essential, as they provide firsthand information on challenges on the ground. He also urged young people not only to raise concerns but to actively champion initiatives that address the difficulties they face in education.
Jonathan Sandram, a youth champion from the Malengachanzi Youth Network under the Kuyenda Project, said the Kuyenda Collective has empowered young people to access information and engage with relevant authorities using evidence they collect for meaningful advocacy. He explained that youth have gained knowledge of how resources are allocated and used in schools. Sandram also noted that authorities have started involving young people in education stakeholder meetings to listen to their concerns and challenges affecting education in their communities.
However, he expressed concern over the slow pace at which some authorities act on resolutions made during such meetings, calling on them to respond more swiftly to issues raised.
Through the Kuyenda Project, youth champions have been equipped with skills to effectively engage stakeholders using evidence to ensure their right to education is realised.