Mutharika nixes Malawi secondary school fees

The Independent Schools Association of Malawi praised President Arthur Peter Mutharika for his decision to eliminate public secondary school fees starting in January. Bishop Wycliffe Chimwendo, the association president, called the policy a significant achievement that removes financial barriers preventing children from accessing education. He stated the move demonstrates genuine leadership, and he emphasized that education forms the foundation of national development.

Chimwendo urged private schools to enhance their standards, and he noted they must justify their fees as public education becomes more accessible. Education experts welcomed the reform as progress toward achieving universal quality education goals. The policy addresses challenges of limited infrastructure, teacher shortages, and poverty that prevent students from completing their education in Malawi.