Oxfam Malawi says it has reached 500 girls in Balaka and Machinga districts through its Girl Education Project which is aimed at supporting vulnerable girls in various schools.
Eduard Beukman, Education Lead for Oxfam in Africa, disclosed this during a meeting held today at Balaka Secondary School Hall, which brought together stakeholders from the South East Education Division, Balaka District Council, headteachers from Riviririvi and Balaka Secondary School, parents, and school management committees.
Beukman said the initiative focuses on girls because they are more likely to drop out of school or be married off early.
“We are very happy with how closely we are working with the Ministry, district authorities, teachers, parents, and the girls themselves. We see them performing well in school,” he said.
Lucy Magagula, Deputy Director Responsible for Inclusive Education at the Ministry of Education, said the project is helping students from vulnerable families who could otherwise not afford school fees or supplies.
Magagula urged the girls to make full use of the opportunity and excel academically.
Students like Trinity Mandolo at Balaka Secondary School said the project has empowered them to work harder and believe in their potential.
The project highlights Oxfam and the Ministry of Education’s efforts to improve access to education and promote inclusive learning for girls in vulnerable communities.
The project, funded by the Scottish Government, is being implemented by Concerned Youth Organisation (CYO) and Oxfam in Malawi. It was launched in February last year and provides school fees, uniforms, learning materials, bicycles, and solar lights to help girls stay in school and improve their academic performance.
By Hellen Luwayo, Balaka
