Youths empowered to promote education

Forum for African Women Educationalists (Fawema) has drilled 45 youths from Nkhata Bay District in policy and budget tracking in the education sector.

Speaking on Saturday at the end of a two-day training on education advocacy, Fawema executive director Wesley Chabwera said the youth are agents of change in their communities.

“The youth will be able to offer critical direction in education matters in the district,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Nkhata Bay district commissioner Peter Jimusole, John Bosco Baluti commended Fawema for the training.

He said: “The youth are important players in development.

“As a council, we value their contribution. That is why the district youth network chairperson is a member of the education service committee.”

Baluti, however, appealed to the youth to refrain from taking a militant approach in their advocacy.

He said: “As a council, we have an open door policy. So,the youth can come to the council whenever there are issues or suggestions.

“Constructive criticism always builds societies and we will be ready to take their ideas on board now that they may provide the necessary checks and balances in how education services are delivered.”

On his part, Nkhata Bay chief education officer Clement Nyirenda said he was pleased to engage with the youth.

However, he bemoaned the tendency by some youths of migrating to South Africa and other countries in search of greener pastures.

Said Nyirenda: “Most youths in our district, once they reach secondary school or sit for the Malawi School Certificate of Education examinations, rush into marriages and bear children.

“Thereafter, they trek to South Africa, leaving their children with grandparents.”

He also advised the youth against damaging school property or attacking teachers.