By Elywin Chighali Mhango
The Building Education Foundation Through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) program, initiated by the Ministry of Education, hosted a media engagement meeting in Mzuzu on Monday, showcasing its efforts to combat learning poverty among lower-grade students.
Public Relations Officer for the Ministry of Education, Mphatso Nkuonera, outlined the program’s goals, emphasizing the importance of improving foundational literacy and numeracy skills among learners in Standards 1-4. The BEFIT program utilizes a tablet-based learning platform, aiming to empower both students and teachers with innovative technology.
Nkuonera highlighted the program’s significant reach, stating that over 80,000 tablets have already been distributed to approximately 681 primary schools across the nation, benefiting more than 410,000 students. The government’s vision is to ensure that all primary schools in Malawi will be equipped through this program by 2029.
During the meeting held at Ilala Crest Lodge, members of the press were given an overview of the BEFIT program and had the opportunity to engage in a tablet-based learning session, which provided them firsthand experience of the tools being used to facilitate education.
Nkuonera encouraged collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the media, noting that journalists now possess a deeper understanding of the BEFIT program, which will enable them to produce comprehensive and accurate stories highlighting its impact and successes.
Chisomo Kambandanga, the District Information Officer for Nkhata Bay, praised the engagement, stating it allowed journalists to connect directly with experts, thereby enhancing their ability to report on educational initiatives accurately. He mentioned that the meeting fosters relationships that could lead to more informed future coverage.
The BEFIT program has also organized training workshops for various media outlets, with upcoming sessions planned in Lilongwe, Liwonde, and Blantyre, further ensuring that the media remains well-informed about this critical educational initiative.
As the BEFIT program continues to expand, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide equitable educational opportunities for all children in Malawi.
