In a landmark move, Malawi’s President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has scrapped tuition fees for primary and secondary schools, declaring education a non-negotiable right for all. “No parent will have an excuse not to send their children to school,” he announced at the Mulhakho wa Alhomwe Cultural Festival, emphasizing that education is “key to development.” The decision, effective immediately, aims to boost enrollment, reduce inequality, and uplift the nation’s future generations.

The policy shift has sparked mixed reactions. Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono praised Mutharika’s “progressive” leadership, urging Malawians to combat corruption to sustain the program. The Independent Schools Association of Malawi (ISAMA) lauded the move as a “critical promise fulfilled.” However, the Civil Society Education Coalition warned of “long-term consequences” due to rushed implementation, while Parliament’s Budget Committee Chair Rhino Chiphiko questioned if funds might be better spent on healthcare or infrastructure.

Challenges loom large: abolishing fees doesn’t cover costs like uniforms, meals, or transport, and Malawi faces a severe teacher shortage (70 students per primary educator). Experts advocate “progressive universalism” , phasing free education, prioritizing primary levels to ensure sustainability. Mutharika’s administration pledges transparency, urging unity: “Let us have faith and love one another.” With U.S. aid funding new schools, the true test lies in execution. Other African nations like Ghana and Kenya have similar policies, but fiscal risks remain.
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