The Problem

Only 11 % of all Malawian households are connected to the Escom National Electricity Grid and when it comes to rural areas only 1% have access. This dire situation results in school children failing to excel well in their studies as they are limited to the day time when the sun shines toread, study, do their homework and prepare for exams. This lack of access to electricity and light put these young children at a huge disadvantage when compared to their counterparts in urban areas. For some, they resort to using dim candles, or unsafe kerosene lamps putting their lives and health in danger!

The Solution

Sukulu Yo Wala (School that Shines!) Project will bring relief to 5 schools in T/A Bvumbwe in Thyolo District by installing solar PV systems and lights in 4 classrooms that will enable the schools to offer evening classes and boarding sessions in preparation for national examinations. It is expected that particularly standard 7 & 8 students will benefit from this as they prepare for their primary school leaving examinations and selection into Form 1 at secondary schools.

RENAMA & IRRI as the project implementers realise that merely installing solar PV systems is not enough to improve the learning outcomes of students in rural areas, howerver a more holistic approach is needed that involves engaging and sensitization of the communities, training of the school authorities and more importantly measures to ensure long term sustainability after the project phases out. With this in mind RENAMA & IRRI will be piloting an innovative approach that will see each school introducing small income generating activities to ensure funds are available to maintain the equipment in the long run. The communities, parents, village heads and school authorities will be engaged, trained and included in the project implementation process to ensure that when the project phases out in 18 months time, they are well equipped and capacitated to continue ensuring that the project delivers lasting benefits and impact to all students learning at each one of the 5 schools.

Project Progress & Status Updates.

As of 10 May 2019 - The project has made a good start with a number of key kick-off meetings having been conducted and the initial planning phase is well under-way. In the few coming weeks, the project team will be working flat out with the schools and communities on sensitization activities.

We will be posting pictures and brief status updates so make sure to check back on a regular basis for updates.

International Resources and Recycling Institute