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First Lady Monica Chakwera Celebrates New Secondary School Opening in Rumphi District
In an inspiring move towards enhancing education accessibility in Malawi, First Lady Madame Monica Chakwera has officially inaugurated the newly constructed Chiyola Community Day Secondary School in Rumphi District. This significant development is a major step toward improving educational opportunities, especially for girls, who traditionally face challenges in accessing secondary education.
During the emotional handover ceremony, Madame Chakwera passionately articulated the transformative power of education in shaping the futures of young girls. “Education is not just a pathway to knowledge; it is a stepping stone to empowerment,” she asserted. She emphasized the role mothers play in motivating their daughters to prioritize education, highlighting the long-term benefits that come from staying in school rather than rushing into marriage.
Reflecting on her own upbringing, Chakwera shared how her mother’s commitment to education instilled in her the values of perseverance and learning. “My mother understood the value of education and made sure that my siblings and I were in school,” she recounted. “To the girls here today, I urge you to focus on your studies. Marriage will come, but your future depends on the education you secure today.”
The First Lady also expressed her gratitude to Press Trust, the organization that funded the construction of the school, which cost approximately K417 million. She made a heartfelt appeal to other corporate entities to join forces with Press Trust in building much-needed student hostels. These additional facilities would further enhance educational access by providing safe accommodation, enabling more students to attend school without the burden of long commutes.
In attendance was Minister of Education Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, who reiterated the school’s critical role in advancing educational opportunities in rural communities. “Quality education close to home is foundational for achieving Malawi’s Vision 2063,” she stated. The Minister pledged a collaborative effort to mobilize resources for future hostel construction, emphasizing human capital as a crucial component of the nation’s development.
Elisa Chipofya, headteacher of Chiyola CDSS, shared her relief over the new school’s potential to alleviate the daily struggles of students who previously had to trek up to 16 kilometers to reach their secondary school. “With 51 students initially selected for Form One, we are excited to report that 48 have already registered and begun their studies,” Chipofya noted, indicating a strong community commitment to education.
Since opening its doors on September 16, 2024, Chiyola CDSS stands as a beacon of hope for the region, providing young learners with invaluable access to higher education right at their doorstep.
Following the ceremony, the First Lady is scheduled to spend time interacting with elderly women at Mwazisi Primary School Ground, further demonstrating her commitment to uplifting communities.
In a world where education is pivotal for development, Chiyola CDSS is set to play a crucial role in empowering the youth of Rumphi District, particularly girls, as they chase their dreams and contribute positively to society.
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Tags: #Malawi #Education #Empowerment #Tourism #WorldNews
Categories: #Politics #Lifestyle #Education
