Malawian President Peter Mutharika has announced that, starting January next year, school fees for both primary and secondary education will be scrapped across the country.
Speaking during a gathering in Mulanje, president Mutharika encouraged learners to stay in school and steer clear of drugs and substance abuse.
Mutharika abolishes school fees nationwide
As reported by Malawi 24, the president stressed that education remains the cornerstone of national development.
“No parent will have an excuse not to send their children to school,” Mutharika said. “Education is key to development, and we want discipline and hard work if Malawi is to move forward.”
President Mutharika thanks Malawians for their support
Mutharika also thanked Malawians for their continued support and trust during the recent general elections. He pledged that his administration would serve all citizens equally, regardless of tribe or region.
“I was not elected by one tribe, but by all Malawians,” he said. “I will help every Malawian without considering tribal lines. Our blood is the same, no matter where we come from.”
Mutharika urged citizens to remain patient as his government rolls out measures aimed at restoring stability.
“Things are difficult, but I promise to do my best and be fair to everyone,” he said. “Let us have faith and love one another beyond tribal boundaries.”
President Mutharika returns to power
Mutharika recently returned as Malawian president, marking a stunning political turnaround.
The courts annulled his disputed re-election, ending his first term, which lasted from 2014 to 2020.
This time, he secured victory with about 56% of the vote, defeating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, who garnered 33%.
Understanding Malawi education
Malawi’s primary and secondary education system is managed by the Ministry of Education, which aims to provide inclusive and equitable learning for all children.
Primary education lasts eight years.
After completing primary school, students take the Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (PSLCE) to qualify for secondary education, which runs for four years and ends with the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) exams.
The government, alongside development partners, continues to invest in teacher training, classroom infrastructure, and curriculum reform to improve quality and access.
