By Andrew Gondwe

Chitipa, May 1, Mana: Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Synod of Livingstonia says over 2,000 learners with disabilities have benefitted from Promoting Equal Access to Education Malawi (PEATEMA) Project by accessing quality education in Chitipa District.

Programmes Manager for CCAP Synod of Livingstonia of Education Department, Atupele Mankhota, was speaking on Tuesday during the project’s exit meeting which was attended by members of district’s executive committee.

Mankhota said that the project has been complementing government efforts in reaching out to learners with disabilities due to inadequate resources.

“As a result, the attendance and pass rate for special needs learners has improved in schools.

“Besides learners benefitting from the project, teachers, parents and community members at large have also benefitted from this project through various trainings,” said Mankhota.

She further said a total of 30 primary school teachers were sent to Catholic University and graduated with certificates in special needs education as an initiative towards promoting inclusive education in the district.

Mankhota added that the teachers have acquired knowledge and skills on how to handle learners with different disabilities to ensure quality and inclusive education.

“Mother groups have acquired knowledge and skills on how to deal with the girl learners with disabilities to remain in school and resist risky behaviours which can hinder them from accessing education," said Mankhota.

Chief Education Officer for Chitipa District, Clement Nyirenda, said that the project’s gains will easily be sustained because of capacity building trainings which targeted teachers, parents, community and learners themselves.

The project, which was being funded by the Scottish Government through Sense Scotland, rolled out in 2018 and phased out on March 31, 2024.