Concerned Youth Organisation, in partnership with Oxfam Malawi, is implementing a transformative education project in Balaka and Machinga districts aimed at empowering girls to stay in school and succeed.
The Girls’ Information Resilient Learning and Support (Girls-MARZ) project, funded by Irish Aid, targets 500 girls; 255 in Balaka and 245 in Machinga.
During an orientation with parents of bursary beneficiaries, Project Officer Rebecca Tembo said the five-year initiative, which started in 2024, focuses on helping girls complete secondary school and transition to tertiary education, while addressing the key barriers that hinder their progress.
“We want parents to embrace positive parenting and become champions of girls’ education,” said Tembo.
She pointed out several challenges the project has faced so far, including a lack of commitment from some bursary students and harmful cultural practices that lead girls into early relationships and pregnancies.
Another major concern, she added, is the impact of hunger, especially among self-boarding students. Due to ongoing drought and food shortages, many parents are unable to spare food for their children to take to school. As a result, they often encourage their daughters to stay home so they can help support the whole family. This has led to absenteeism and an increased risk of school dropout among girls.
The meeting brought together parent representatives from six schools: Kankao CDSS, Namikombe CDSS, Utale CDSS, Rivirivi CDSS, Balaka Secondary School, and Njerenje CDSS.
Beyond bursaries, the project also supports girls with school uniforms, learning materials and digital learning devices. Special attention is given to girls with disabilities, who receive assistive learning tools tailored to their needs.
Rita Sukasuka, Principal Gender Officer for Balaka District Council, emphasised the importance of psychosocial support and parental involvement.
“Parents must pay closer attention to their daughters to prevent teen pregnancies, child marriages and suicidal tendencies,” she said.
She also encouraged parents to familiarise themselves with the Re-Admission Policy, which allows girls who drop out especially due to pregnancy to return to school and continue their education.
Parents at the meeting welcomed the initiative. Elida Mtunduwatha from Njerenje Village said, “A girl child is very important. She must be nurtured, protected, and educated. When you educate a girl, you educate the whole nation.” She added that the meeting was an eye-opener and would help parents to be more open with their daughters and raise them with values that support their education and growth.
Another parent, Verison Kachoka from Mposela Village, noted that raising a child today is not easy, especially with the growing influence of social media, which often exposes children to negative behaviour. He stressed the need for stronger guidance and closer monitoring from parents.
Girls-MARZ project is expected to bring lasting change by equipping girls with the tools, support, and environment needed to thrive in their education and future.
By Hellen Luwayo, Balaka
