The Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) has raised serious concerns over the state of education in Malawi, warning that poor learning outcomes and a lack of foundational skills among students could derail the country’s development goals.
Speaking at the launch of the ‘End Learning Poverty Campaign’ held at Mkwichi Secondary School in Lilongwe, CSEC Board Chairperson Dr. Limbani Nsapato described Malawi’s education situation as “deeply concerning.”
He cautioned that the country risks failing to meet Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and quality education for all.
“As a nation, we are not doing well. Many children are passing through the system without acquiring essential competencies,” said Dr. Nsapato. “This affects progression to higher levels of education and limits future opportunities.”
Dr. Nsapato emphasized the critical role of civil society in advocating for increased education financing and holding the government accountable, particularly in implementing the Foundation Learning Program—a key initiative aimed at reducing learning poverty.
While acknowledging progress in policy reforms and teacher training, he noted that more needs to be done to recruit, retain, and support qualified teachers across the education system.
On her part, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, described the current learning crisis as a “continental emergency.” She cited data indicating that 9 out of 10 African children aged 10 are unable to read or comprehend a simple sentence.
“Despite increased access to education, far too many children leave early grades without mastering basic skills,” said Minister Wirima.
The End Learning Poverty Campaign—launched under the theme “Can Read, Can Write, Can Count: Foundation4Life”—supports Malawi’s Vision 2063 and the African Union’s education development agenda.
Key focus areas include upgrading teacher qualifications to diploma level, introducing preparatory classes for five-year-olds, reforming curricula, expanding school feeding programs, and enhancing inclusive digital learning platforms.
The Minister called for deeper collaboration among government institutions, communities, and development partners to address persistent challenges, especially in underserved rural areas.
“Ending learning poverty is a collective responsibility,” she added. “Together, we can build an inclusive education system that prepares every Malawian child for a life of dignity and opportunity
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