By Twink Jones Gadama
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a bid to alleviate the financial burden on parents, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology in Malawi has issued a stern warning to primary school heads who are charging learners excessive fees for school funds.
The ministry spokesperson, Mphatso Nkuonera, emphasized that the approved school fund for the whole academic year remains MK3000 (approximately US$ 4), thus amounting to MK1,000 (approximately US$1.33) per term.
In an exclusive interview with Maravi Post, Nkuonera stressed the importance of the school fund in supporting various development initiatives within schools.
“The school fund plays a significant role in ensuring the provision of quality education and infrastructure development,” he stated. “Therefore, it is mandatory for parents to contribute towards this fund.”
Investigations conducted by Maravi Post have revealed that some primary schools in Blantyre, as well as other districts in the central region, including Lilongwe, have been charging students MK1,500 (approximately US$ 2).
These findings have raised concerns among parents who are already burdened with the cost of education.
The commencement of the new academic year on January 8 saw several students being turned away due to their inability to pay the school fund.
As a result, the government is urging school heads to grant a grace period to parents who are unable to meet the payment deadline.
According to anonymous teachers interviewed by Maravi Post, some school heads are pocketing the extra money charged.
“It is disheartening to witness the exploitation of parents and the mismanagement of funds by school heads,” one teacher expressed.
“We understand the importance of the school fund, but it should be utilized responsibly and transparently. Any abuse of funds undermines the purpose it serves.” another one added.
In response to these claims, Nkuonera assured the public that the ministry is taking measures to address the issue of misappropriation.
“We have a responsibility to ensure that funds are correctly managed, and any reports of malpractice will be thoroughly investigated,” he stated.
Nkuonera adds, “As the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology actively tackles the issue, parents are encouraged to communicate any grievances and report instances of excessive fees to the relevant authorities.
“The government remains committed to providing accessible and affordable education to all students in Malawi”.
The ministry’s warning sends a clear message to primary school heads, stressing the importance of adhering to the approved school fund of MK3000 for the academic year.
By urging parental compliance and exposing the exploitative practices of some school heads, the government is working to make education more accessible for all children in Malawi.
