Shumilae Makalani: A teacher who provides free remedial lessons to needy pupils

Teaching is one of the noble and popular professions which help to produce leaders and shape our society in incredible ways.

And the profession becomes more exciting when some passionate teachers such a Shumilae Makalani, from Big John’s Primary School in Njewa, Lilongwe, become innovative to create solutions for needy students.

The 33-yeard-old embarked on an initiative to provide free teaching and mentorship lessons to needy students who cannot afford private tuition.

Shumilae offers remedial lessons in almost all nine primary school subjects; Bible Knowledge, Chichewa, English, Expressive Arts, Life Skills, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Social and Environmental Sciences.

Her main responsibility is to help needy learners by improving their academic performance, understanding and developing self-confidence.

Shumilae’s free teaching services also benefit learners from surrounding schools.

“I am dedicated to nurturing young minds and promoting inclusive education to the best of my abilities and capabilities.

“My inspiration and passion to offer free extra lessons came from interacting with learners who are eager to succeed, but were held back by circumstances such as a lack of private tuition, school materials, menstrual hygiene challenges, school fees and unavailability of space to study,” she said.

Having witnessed this gap, Shumilae felt compelled to help through free remedial, enrichment lessons and support whenever possible, so that no child is left behind.

Currently, about 36 learners (21 girls and 15 boys) are benefiting from her material and remedial support.

Shumilae also provides accommodation to some learners.

“I am a private tutor for both online and home calls, but I still have the urge to reach out to every child regardless of their financial and social status. It is this desire that birthed my vision to provide a stable and nurturing space at my home for the students, where learners can concentrate on their studies, receive guidance and grow holistically. Through this, I hope to support learners academically, emotionally and socially,” she said.

According to Shumilae, education plays a vital role as it equips children with knowledge, life skills and hope for the future.

She said education helps children to internalise ideas, discover their talents and potential, make informed decisions and become responsible members of society.

“When a child is educated, the entire community benefits. Education breaks cycles of poverty in society, promotes equality and gives children tools they need to reach their full potential,” she said.

Shumilae’s initiative began when she first joined the teaching profession in 2013 at Kaponda Primary School in Neno District before moving to Mphandula Primary School in Namitete, Lilongwe in 2016.

Then, she taught without much thought or focus until 2021 when she moved to Njewa.

She attested that many students who have benefited or continue to benefit from her free lessons and mentorship have registered tremendous progress.

This is specifically for her current school where learners have shown improved their academic performance, confidence and participation.

Shumilae cited that for the past three or four years, her school has been performing well in national examinations.

For example, last year, it achieved a 100 percent pass rate in Primary School Leaving Certificate Examinations (PLSCE).

“Let me take this opportunity to thank the administration and colleagues for the teamwork, dedication and resilience which earned us the 100 percent pass rate,” she said.

Shumilae disclosed that growing up, she faced a myriad of challenges, including limited resources and societal expectations.

“I faced a lot of bullying, sadly, from fellow girls, especially in primary school. Not only that, but the nomadic lifestyle we had as a family was also affecting my learning in many ways.

“And growing up with dental fluorosis also subjected to discrimination among peers. It affected my self-esteem and learning. But I thank God because my mother has always been my greatest motivator. She helped me know and understand myself better,” she narrated.

Due to the nature of her late father’s work, Shumilae attended several schools such as Nkhotakota CCAP School, Ndaula F.P School, Kafulu LEA School, Mlodza LEA before sitting for her PSLCE at St John’s F.P School in Lilongwe.

Later, she went to New Gift Private Secondary School in Zomba, SOS Herman Gmainer Secondary School in Lilongwe, Michiru View Girls Secondary School in Blantyre and Neno Girls Secondary School.

She did her initial teacher training at Blantyre Teachers College before studying for a Diploma in Community Development at Lilongwe Polytechnic Continuing Education Centre.

She said every girl out there who is dreaming should stay in their lane.

“Be bold and focused and know that your dreams matter and they are valid. Stay in school, work hard and do not be afraid to aim high. Your background does not define your future.

“God will promote you through your determination and education. You can overcome any obstacle if you believe in yourself and may you never let anyone rain on your parade.” she said.