People in Mangochi District have expressed disappointment with some teachers who allegedly spend time on social media during school time.
They expressed the concern on Tuesday during the district budget engagement meeting the Malawi Economic Justice Network (Mejn) organised for stakeholders to discuss performances of different sectors such as education, health and agriculture.
During the meeting, participants, who included civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders as well as area development committees, asked education authorities why they were failing to caution the teachers.
Sheikh Fahd Kamsuli, from Mangochi Chapter of Muslim Association of Malawi, said he was not pleased with reports that some teachers were spending their time on social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook instead of teaching.
“I am pleased that we have a higher education authority in attendance. Let me ask him why he is condoning teachers to chat on WhatsApp during school sessions. Can this promote quality education in this district?”he asked.
Kamsuli said it was unfortunate the poor performance in the district is attributed to children’s lack of interest in education when it was not the case.
Koche Area Development Committee chairperson Jordan Kanyerere said besides spending time on social media, some
teachers allegedly engage in businesses during school time.
In response, Mangochi district acting director of education, youth and sports Rabson Kawalala said he was aware thatsome teachers were not dedicated to their work.
“This is a serious concern and I should say it here that if these teachers are found, my office will deal with them because the conduct is unwarranted and uncalled for in the teaching profession,” he said.
However, Kawalala said despite many challenges, the district was doing well in education.
Mejn regional coordinator (South) Mike Banda expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting and the feedback, saying that was why they organised the meeting.
Mejn held the meeting with funding from Norwegian Church Aid and DanChurch Aid
