NGO hailed for supporting students
Mchinji South legislator Agnes Nkusa Nkhoma (Malawi Congress Party) has commended Advancing Girls Education in Africa (AGE Africa) for supporting girls to remain in school in the district.
She said this on Saturday in the district during this year’s AGE Africa annual All Scholars Retreat for girls.
Said Nkusa Nkhoma: “I am very impressed with what AGE Africa is doing in sponsoring the education of needy learners in the district.
“Today, the students have been empowered with entrepreneurship skills so that they should not only rely on getting employed after finishing school.”
Mchinji district principal education officer Samson Phiri also commended AGE Africa for providing bursaries to needy students in the district.

He said: “Besides bursaries, the organisation also provides learning materials and upkeep money to needy students.
“Again, AGE Africa is engaging students in entrepreneurship skills so they will be able to create employment for themselves and others.”
AGE Africa country director Ulanda Mtamba said they organise the retreat annually to bring together young people to appreciate emerging issues.
“Every year, we have different themes focusing on emerging issues globally or nationally for young people to learn from,” she said.
Happiness Peter from Magawa Secondary School in the district said without the organisation’s support, she would not be in school.
“My parents were struggling to pay my school fees, buying groceries and giving me upkeep. Being part of AGE Africa Creating Health Approaches to Success Club has helped me develop high self-esteem,” she said.
Different entrepreneurs showcased their products and taught the learners how to make products such as cooking oil from sun flower, peanut butter and bar soap.
AGE Africa is working in nine districts in Southern and Central regions of Malawi where it is implementing a four-year Phillip Morris International Project.