Breaking the Cycle in Malawi

How Simple Resources Improve Education for Children

Maryam Kaisi      Published on 15 August 2025 | 8:23 AM

As a young student, I was known as "the smartest student" in my class. Maryam Kaisi—always neat, with a clean, ironed uniform and carefully kept hair. My headmaster would often call out during assembly, “Come and collect your notebooks, little girl,” and each time, it felt like a badge of honor. This recognition boosted my confidence and fueled my drive to work harder. I’d think, “How can the smartest student not also be smart in the brain?” I consistently ranked in the top three with determination, though it wasn’t easy. In classrooms packed with two hundred students, standing out required genuine effort and resilience.

At Chigumula Primary School in Malawi, Blantyre, Traditional Authority Kapeni where I attended grades 1 and 2, the conditions were challenging. We sat on a cold floor in bare classrooms without windows, with only a few rays of natural light reaching those of us sitting in the back. Though I didn’t fully grasp the student-to-teacher ratio's impact then, I noticed its effects. Some students were present in the classroom physically but were struggling academically. The teachers did their best, but with so many students, some inevitably fell behind.

My perspective on education changed when I moved to Lilongwe the capital city of Malawi in 2003 and joined Bambino International Schools, where I completed my primary schooling. The contrast was striking. Classrooms at Bambino were bright, well-lit, and beautifully decorated, creating a comfortable atmosphere for focus and learning. We had desks for each student, and with only about 22 students per class, teachers could offer us individual attention. It was an environment where every student could thrive.

The polished, elegant uniforms we wore at Bambino made me realize the importance of appearance in self-esteem. At Chigumula, I’d seen classmates wearing tattered clothes, though I hadn’t fully understood their struggles. Now, I recognize the difference that good school resources and a supportive environment can make. At Bambino, we had a steady supply of notebooks, which we could exchange for new ones at the library as soon as we filled them. These resources allowed us to focus on learning rather than worrying about basic supplies. This experience opened my eyes to the importance of quality education and the impact a school’s resources can have on a student's success.

Embracing Quality Education

Quality education is more than a goal; it’s a fundamental right that empowers individuals and communities. The importance of quality education is central to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which focuses on inclusive, equitable education for all. Reflecting on my own educational journey—from Chigumula Primary to the University of Malawi—I’ve come to appreciate the power of supportive learning environments, adequate resources, and dedicated teachers in shaping students’ future.

After joining the University of Malawi, I was inspired to give back. In 2016, I began providing essentials like uniforms, shoes, and notebooks to needy students in Chigumula and surrounding communities. Though my reach is limited to what I can personally afford, my impact has touched the lives of over 150 students so far. These small contributions help ensure that students not only attend school but have the essentials to feel prepared, focused, and confident.

Quality education should be accessible to every child, regardless of their background. I’ve seen how something as simple as having a clean uniform or sturdy shoes can boost a child's self-esteem, encouraging them to participate more actively in their learning. Although these resources may seem minor, they significantly foster a conducive learning environment and promote inclusivity.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

In the future, I hope to expand my support, aiming to provide more than just material resources. Well-equipped classrooms, lower student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive educational resources are crucial, and I remain passionate about these needs. Quality education goes beyond textbooks; it’s about creating opportunities for each child to thrive both academically and personally.
As we continue striving for SDG 4, let’s remember that every small effort—no matter how local or limited—contributes to this global mission. Together, we can make quality education a reality for all.

References

• United Nations. (2020). SDG4: Quality education. United Nations Regional Information Centre. https://unric.org/en/sdg-4