Teachers in Kasungu District have commended the Building Education Foundations Through Innovations and Technology (Befit) programme for improving literacy and numeracy among primary school learners.
St. Joseph Primary School head teacher Godfrey Nkhata said the use of tablets has significantly enhanced learners’ ability to read and solve basic mathematics.
He said since the programme was introduced in 2025, there has been a noticeable increase in school attendance, as learners are more motivated to attend classes.
| Sangwani Ngulube
“Many learners come to school eager to use the tablets. This has made learning more engaging and interactive, while also helping them follow lessons programmed in the devices,” said Nkhata.
At St. Elizabeth Primary School, which was recently recognised as one of the best-performing schools under the programme, head teacher Stanley Changaya said the technology has improved academic performance.
Under the Befit initiative, learners use tablet computers to access lessons in reading, mathematics and other subjects.
At St. Joseph Primary School alone, at least 750 learners are benefitting from the programme.
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has expressed satisfaction with the programme’s progress.
The ministry’s spokesperson Lily Kampani said Befit was introduced to strengthen foundational skills among primary school learners in standard one to four.
But despite the positive impact, education authorities in the district say the programme’s reach remains limited.
Kasungu district coordinating primary education adviser Patrick Banda said only 92 out of the district’s 394 primary schools are benefitting from the initiative.
“While the results are encouraging, there is need to expand the programme so that more learners can benefit,” he said.
He also cited challenges affecting implementation, including damage to tablets and other supporting equipment.
Responding to the concerns, Kampani said damaged tablets are returned for repairs while those beyond repair are replaced.
She added that the programme is being implemented in phases and is expected to reach all primary schools in Malawi by 2030.
