Education authorities report that poverty, child labor, and parental neglect are severely hindering educational advancement in the Mgomwa Education Zone of Balaka District. Harmony Martin, the Primary Education Advisor, stated that a significant number of students, particularly girls, drop out of school to enter early marriages or the workforce.
Statistics from Mgomwa Primary School illustrate a sharp enrollment decline in higher grades. Village Headman Kayamba, representing local traditional authority, acknowledged that a fine for non-compliant parents has been ineffective. He pledged stricter enforcement of community bylaws.
These concerns were raised at a meeting organized by the Centre for Alternatives for Victimized Women and Children. The organization's Project Officer, Wakisa Mhango, emphasized that education is a solution to poverty. Their initiative, funded by Oxfam Hong Kong, provides bursaries and essential materials to help vulnerable children remain in school.
Statistics from Mgomwa Primary School illustrate a sharp enrollment decline in higher grades. Village Headman Kayamba, representing local traditional authority, acknowledged that a fine for non-compliant parents has been ineffective. He pledged stricter enforcement of community bylaws.
These concerns were raised at a meeting organized by the Centre for Alternatives for Victimized Women and Children. The organization's Project Officer, Wakisa Mhango, emphasized that education is a solution to poverty. Their initiative, funded by Oxfam Hong Kong, provides bursaries and essential materials to help vulnerable children remain in school.
