By Burnett Munthali
Fourteen primary schools in Ntchisi District remain in a state of disrepair after their classroom blocks were severely damaged by recent hailstorms. Despite the urgent need for restoration, the Ntchisi District Council has yet to take action, raising concerns about the impact on the quality of education for affected learners.
According to District Senior Primary Education Advisor (SPEA) Annie Chazema, the damaged infrastructure is significantly disrupting teaching and learning. With classrooms rendered unusable, many learners are forced to study in overcrowded spaces, makeshift shelters, or even under trees. Chazema emphasized that the longer the delays continue, the greater the risk of learners falling behind in their studies.
“The lack of proper classroom structures is greatly affecting the provision of quality education. We urge authorities to act swiftly so that learners can have a conducive learning environment,” said Chazema.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for Ntchisi District Council, James Mwale, stated that the council is still in the process of assessing the extent of the damage. He explained that a full report will be compiled before any renovation work begins, but he did not provide a specific timeline for when the repairs might commence.
Educationist Benedicto Kondowe has called on the relevant authorities to treat the matter with urgency, warning that any further delays could have long-term consequences on learners’ academic performance. He stressed the importance of government and stakeholders prioritizing education infrastructure in disaster response efforts.
“There is a need for authorities to move with speed and act on the issue. The longer learners are kept in poor learning conditions, the more their education suffers. We need immediate intervention,” Kondowe said.
Among the affected schools are Sopani, Chinthungwa, Makanda, Chibweya, and Mpherere, with more schools potentially in need of urgent rehabilitation.
As the assessment continues, parents, teachers, and learners remain anxious about the future of their education. Many are calling on the government, development partners, and local organizations to step in and provide support for the reconstruction efforts. Without immediate action, the education of hundreds of learners in Ntchisi remains in jeopardy.
