This is in response to the proposal by Government through the Malawi National Commission for Unesco, following the devastating floods and strong winds that hit the country early this year leaving many schools in disarray.

Speaking during the ceremony, at Chikuli primary school ground in Chiradzulu, the Vice President Right Honourable Everton Chimulirenji said Government prioritises education because it is the very hub of national development.

“On behalf of His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika whose administration takes issues of education seriously I would like to thank and commend Unesco for this special and thoughtful donation. The torrential rains left 455 out of 7318 schools affected and this means that even teaching and learning materials were not spared hence Government’s appreciation for this timely donation,” said Chimulirenji.

Chimulirenji warned crooked people not to tamper with the donated school materials saying, “Government will not tolerate any mischief on this donation. Those who might dare to do the same will face the long arm of the law.”

On his part Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Disasters Wilson Mollen said when President Mutharika declared state of disaster in some districts early this year. Much of the supplies were food items but teaching and learning materials were also destroyed.

He said: “The education sector was heavily affected with the torrential rains. 969 school toilets were rendered unusable, 5500 desks were damaged requiring millions of Kwachas to replace the damaged school infrastructure and teaching aids.”

Speaking earlier Member of Parliament for Chiradzulu North Constituency and Traditional Authority Ntchema concurred that Unesco’s donation came at the right time and it would enhance quality of education. They also highlighted that there’s hunger in Chiradzulu needing Government’s quick intervention.

Rt. Hon. Chimulirenji with Madam Judith Chimulirenji being briefed

by Unesco officials at Chikuli primary school in Chiradzulu

Chimulirenji promised that Government will not allow people to suffer with hunger and promised that Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma) and other government partners will send relief items to the district in time.

The Unesco donation include items like; pupil textbooks, pens, rulers, chalkboards and dusters.