Children in Ntchisi District have asked authorities to take to task teachers that neglect their duty and get involved in practices that affect learners’ performance.
The call came on Friday during this year’s children’s parliament session held under the theme ‘Respecting and protecting children’s rights is everyone’s responsibility’.
The Speaker of the Children’s Parliament Holiness Kalimbila said many teachers still administer corporal punishment to learners and rarely report for duties once they get their salaries.
She cited a teacher who used to abscond classes for a drinking spree during working hours, which prompted the head teacher and learners to follow him to the drinking joint.
Said Kalimbila: “Of course there is improvement since we started attending the parliamentary sessions in 2023.
“However, we are worried with the issues of teachers’ misconduct as they have always been treated with soft gloves yet some of them engage in sexual activities with learners.”
Save the Children Malawi Swedish International Development Agency civil society organisations and partnership manager Leah Phiri said Children’s Parliament offer a platform for children to express their concerns.
“Children’s parliaments are important as they offer platforms for children to advocate for policies which have potential to improve their lives,” she said.
World Vision Malawi advocacy campaigns and safeguarding manager Lizzie Lombe said their overall vision is to ensure that children have life in all its fullness.
“So, Children’s Parliament is one of those forums that give the children an opportunity to express their concerns,” she said.
Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare deputy director for child affairs Justin Hamera expressed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children through the Children’s Parliament.
Ntchisi district director of education, youth and sports Shadreck Chakwawa acknowledged challenges children are facing in the district.
