The Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Francis Folley, has encouraged learners to make effective use of the Free Secondary Education policy by working hard and remaining focused on their academic and career aspirations, describing education as a critical driver of national development.
Folley made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to Liwonde Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Machinga District, where he was assessing the implementation of the Free Secondary Education policy.
He assured learners, parents and the general public that the Government’s commitment to the policy goes beyond the removal of school fees, stressing that efforts are being made to ensure the delivery of quality education so that learners can fully benefit from the initiative.
“The policy is not only about access but also about improving learning outcomes and preparing young people to contribute meaningfully to national development,” Folley said.
Headteacher of Liwonde CDSS, Simeon Mateche, commended the Government for providing grants to schools under the policy, noting that the financial support has enabled many learners who previously dropped out due to economic challenges to return to school.
As part of his tour, the Deputy Minister also visited Chichiri CDSS in Zomba District, where he interacted with school management and learners to gain firsthand insight into the successes and challenges associated with the policy’s implementation.
The Free Secondary Education initiative forms part of the Government’s broader agenda to promote inclusive and equitable access to education across the country.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.