Teachers in Lilongwe Rural East and Dedza have emphasised the importance of good infrastructure in the delivery of academic services to learners.
Speaking on Saturday when Emmanuel University handed over classrooms it renovated at Chiuzira Primary School, Standard Seven teacher Sarah Nkhoma said government and the private sector can collaborate to improve infrastructure in public schools.
Through its Women Empowerment and Special Needs Education, the university is renovating classrooms and change rooms in Lilongwe Rural East and Dedza to improve teaching and learning environment.
Nkhoma said regular maintenance of classrooms is crucial as it fosters a conducive learning environment, which improves learner focus, engagement and academic performance.
“Tidy classrooms are important because they minimise health risks, reduce distractions and foster a calming, focused learning environment that improves student concentration and academic performance,” she said.
On his part, Matapila Primary School teacher Harrington Sakhula said by pooling expertise and resources, government-private sector partnerships can help in expanding access to education.
In his remarks, Women Empowerment and Special Needs Education project coordinator Jeffrey Maganga said they want to create a conducive environment for learning for girls and children with disabilities in schools.
He said: “We want to see girls and learners with special needs receiving education that enables them to excel and realise their full potential.
“That is why through the same project we are sponsoring young girls who have done well in their Malawi School Certificate of Education examinations to continue with their studies.”
Maganga asked teachers, learners and communities to take care of school property, warning that misuse and destruction of the same will scare away potential partners.
The university is implementing the project with funding from German-based charity Bread for the World.
