In Malawi, girls that live at school have a better opportunity at succeeding.

For many students in North America, the plan of going away to University or College and “living in residence” or boarding at a Campus while attending school is one filled with the anticipation of experiencing new adventures and seeing a new part of the world. Completing Grade 12 and moving onto University is an anticipated life event; education is available, and choices are limitless. 

Kuwala Christian Girls School in Malawi offers a volunteer boarding school environment for a different reason; safety and security while getting an education. McSensio Raphael, the acting Headmaster at Kuwala, provided insight into the success of boarding schools for girls in Malawi.

Addressing the inequality gap

When you think about your household’s income, do you feel wealthy, poor, or just average? Most of us don’t realize that poverty is an inequality gap and is a problem with solutions. In Canada, we have access to physical infrastructure (electricity, water, and shelter from climate change). Also, there are social safety nets (education, technology, and food security) that help provide a minimum standard of life regardless of income, race, sex, or religion. And while inequalities exist in Canada, it is nothing like experiencing poverty in Malawi. The poverty inequality gap can be broken down into 6 critical areas to demonstrate what Kuwala is doing to help break the cycle for the next generation of girls attending school.

From seedlings to crops, the tomatoes are blooming

The greenhouse is growing an abundance of tomato plants. It only took McSensio Raphael (acting Head Schoolmaster), and his green thumb a few weeks to grow large tomatoes on sturdy vines. The warm Malawian weather, with lots of sunshine and fresh air, coupled with consistent tender care and watering, result in such a magnificent crop.

Staying safe, staying home

During the COVID 19 pandemic, the students are not on campus. But they do want to extend a warm thank you for all your support and prayers. Many of the students may have some materials to keep them busy at home, but all will be eager to return to their studies when the world health crisis is under control. According to the United Kingdom’s Financial Times and the Guardian newspapers, several NGOs have reported that Malawi, with a population greater than 18 million, has only seven ventilators and 25 intensive care unit beds. This makes physical isolating even more important in Malawi. While the campus is located in a rural area that is helpful for physical distancing, the campus is still following national health guidelines and recommendations to keep our students safe.

Laptops have arrived

The Power connection from the National grid was connected to the school at the beginning of March. This is a big deal for the students and staff at Kuwala. The classrooms now have lights and power for their donated laptops. With the power on, the girls can study late into the evening. They will feel safe and secure while walking to and from the Hostel to the Classroom as the grounds will have pathway lighting as well as the existing perimeter fencing around the campus.