Malawi-Scotland Partnership inspires learners in Mzuzu
Mzuzu University communication lecturer Elida Kamanga has stressed the importance of career talk in inspiring learners to achieve their dreams, and reduce dropout rates.
Speaking on Tuesday at Masasa Primary School in Mzuzu as part of the Malawi-Scotland Partnership programme, she noted that many rural learners lack inspiration, leading to high dropout rates.
She emphasised that failure to engage with learners, especially in rural areas, can have dire consequences.
Said Kamanga: “When we don’t inspire learners, they may resign to fate, thinking that’s just the way things are. But by connecting with them, learners can find role models who encourage them to take risks and pursue their dreams.”
She, therefore, called for concerted efforts to inspire, challenge, and encourage young minds to reach their full potential.
Malawi-Scotland Partnership acting chief executive officer Linda Dembo said their programme targeted the school because many girls in the Northern Region are sent by their parents to sell agricultural produce in town, especially when they reach puberty (around Standard 6-8).
“This early exposure to money often leads to dropout rates, as they prioritise earning over education,” she said.
Ezinala Mwale, a 13-year-old Standard 7 learner, who aspires to become a nurse, said Kamanga’s motivational speech has energised her to work even harder, persevere and never give up on her goals.
Established in 2004, the Malawi-Scotland Partnership is a development organisation that aims to promote sustainable development and improve the lives of people in Malawi, particularly in rural areas.
