Malawi First Lady Chakwera on investing in education

The Global Education Monitoring report by UNESCO has revealed a stark reality for children in Africa - they are five times less likely to learn basics compared to children in other regions. This concerning disparity was the focal point of a recent interview with Monica Chakwera, the First Lady of Malawi, on CNBC Africa. Chakwera emphasized the crucial role of foundational education in a child's development, highlighting that without a strong basic education, progressing to advanced levels becomes challenging. She stressed the significance of the first 1000 days of a child's life, stating that a solid educational foundation during this period is essential for unlocking a child's potential and shaping them into the next generation of leaders and professionals. Chakwera underscored that without mastering the basics, children risk lagging behind in skills and knowledge required for advanced education and future success. The interview shed light on the pressing issue of educational deficits in Africa and the need for urgent action to bridge learning gaps. Furthermore, Chakwera delved into the social and economic repercussions of this education gap, pointing out that without adequate education, countries cannot effectively combat poverty. She emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing educational challenges, citing the alarming increase in pregnancies among girls under 18 during the pandemic due to disrupted schooling. Chakwera called for a renewed focus on early child development to ensure children are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in school and beyond. She proposed that investing in early child development programs could significantly reduce dropout rates and improve basic literacy and education outcomes. The role of the private sector in addressing educational gaps was also a key topic of discussion in the interview. Chakwera highlighted the vital contribution of private schools in expanding access to education, especially in regions where public school infrastructure is insufficient to meet the growing demand. She underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in enhancing the quality and availability of education in Africa. Reflecting on her foundation's efforts to invest in education in Malawi, Chakwera shared valuable lessons learned during the process. She emphasized the need to address cultural barriers and social norms that impede children's access to education, such as early marriage practices. Chakwera stressed the importance of engaging with local communities and traditional leaders to ensure a collective commitment to prioritizing education for children's overall well-being and future prospects. Through her advocacy and initiatives, Chakwera continues to champion the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering Africa's youth to reach their full potential.