A 16-year-old girl from Mangochi who attracted national attention for remaining in school after 28 of her female classmates dropped out has passed her Form 1 mid-term examinations at Maranatha High School Academy.
Duwana Muhammad, from Mangale Primary School, sat her Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE) examinations as the only girl remaining in her class.
Her latest results show encouraging progress, scoring 78 out of 100 in Religion and Moral Education and 33 out of 50 (66%) in English Paper I.
Maranatha Academy Managing Director, Ernest Kaonga, says he is impressed with her performance and the progress she has made since joining the school on a full scholarship.
“I am so impressed with the performance. Many people talked a lot about her performance when she was still at primary school. Look now, we have shaped her. She is now one of the best students in our class,” he said.
Dr Kaonga said her progress had encouraged the school to consider supporting more children from disadvantaged backgrounds through scholarships.
“I am so pleased with her and, to be honest, this is encouraging. It will encourage us more to give more scholarships to such children,” he added.
Duwana’s story captured national attention after she continued attending classes while 28 other girls dropped out of Standard 8.
She reportedly studied by paraffin lamp after completing household chores, including fetching water and firewood, while holding on to her dream of becoming a doctor.
Maranatha Academy subsequently offered her a full scholarship, honouring its pledge to enrol her despite concerns surrounding her PSLCE results.
The school said it could not turn its back on a girl whose determination to pursue education had inspired many.
Duwana’s progress is an example of how educational support and a conducive learning environment can help children overcome difficult circumstances and realise their potential.
She is also expected to pursue university studies at Sharda University in India.
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