Communities Excited Over Classroom Project Underway in Blantyre Rural

Malawi-Residents in the vicinity of Mafunde Primary School in Blantyre Rural have expressed excitement over a classroom project under construction, citing that it will help alleviate some of the inadequate infrastructure challenges at the school, writes Thokozani Beaton.

Imba Malawi, a local organization in Mpemba’s Somba 2 Village, is constructing the classroom to provide good shelter after years of learning in makeshift structures, which exposed learners to harsh weather conditions and distractions.

Enid Mauluka, the project coordinator for Imba Malawi, explained that the organization saw the need to address the problem of a lack of infrastructure at the school.

"Initially, we helped with the renovation of a makeshift classroom last year, but we realized constructing a proper block was the best solution," she said.

Filip Mkomesa, the chairperson of the school management committee, said that the school accommodates children from six different villages but only has five permanent blocks.

"Standards 3 and 4 students are learning under the trees. This project, once completed, will help reduce the problems of classroom space at the school," Mkomesa added.

Community members are contributing building materials, such as sand, to the project. Jeremiah Jumbe, the Soche Ward Councillor, expressed gratitude for the support and stressed the need for private organizations to help build schools.

"Under a tree is not a good place for learning. With the country's current economic situation, we cannot continue to wait for the government to provide everything for us. Those who can provide, let them come in and help out," he said.

"Learning in conditions that are not conducive is a recipe for poor quality education, for the individuals, their communities, and the nation. We cannot achieve the 2030 agenda, let alone the Malawi2063 goals, with poor quality education," said education expert Steve Sharra.

He further added, "The reality is that there are many students learning either under trees or in structures that are not fit for learning, and with the way the rains are falling, most substandard infrastructure is at risk of collapsing and injuring learners and teachers."

The Mafunde Primary School was opened in 2018, currently has Standards 1 up to 7, and has an enrollment of over 500 learners.

The school faces several challenges, including a shortage of furniture, teachers’ houses, and proper offices.

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