By Twink Jones Gadama
In a heartwarming display of generosity and solidarity, the Phalombe Secondary School alumni association has launched a successful initiative to support needy students at their former school. The initiative, which kicked off with the payment of exam fees for students sitting for the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) exams, has brought hope and relief to many students who were struggling to make ends meet.
According to Booker Matemvu, the chairperson of the alumni association, the initiative was inspired by the desire to give back to their alma mater and make a positive impact on the lives of current students. “We are thrilled to see our fellow alumni coming together in large numbers to support this worthy cause,” Matemvu said in an interview. “We believe that education is the key to unlocking the potential of our young people, and we are committed to doing our part to ensure that every student at Phalombe Secondary School has access to the resources they need to succeed.”
The payment of exam fees was just the first phase of the initiative.
The alumni association has also purchased mattresses, which will be handed over to the school in January. This donation is expected to improve the living conditions of students in the school’s dormitories, many of whom have been struggling with inadequate bedding and other essential supplies.
The initiative has been hailed as a shining example of the power of community and the impact that individuals can have when they come together to support a common cause. “We are grateful to the alumni association for their generosity and commitment to our students,” said the headmaster of Phalombe Secondary School. “Their support has made a huge difference in the lives of our students, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”
For many of the students who benefited from the initiative, the payment of exam fees was a lifeline that enabled them to sit for their exams without worrying about how they would afford the fees. “I was struggling to raise the money to pay for my exam fees, and I was worried that I would not be able to sit for my exams,” said one student, who wished to remain anonymous. “But thanks to the alumni association, I was able to pay my fees and sit for my exams without any worries. I am so grateful to them for their support.”
The initiative has also inspired other alumni to come forward and support their former school. “I was motivated to get involved in the initiative because I saw the positive impact that it was having on the lives of our students,” said another alumnus, who donated money to support the purchase of mattresses. “I believe that it is our responsibility as alumni to give back to our alma mater and support the next generation of students.”
As the Phalombe Secondary School alumni association looks to the future, they are planning to expand their initiative to include other forms of support, such as scholarships and mentorship programs. “We are committed to continuing to support our alma mater and make a positive impact on the lives of our students,” Matemvu said. “We believe that together, we can make a difference and help to shape the future of our young people.”
In conclusion, the Phalombe Secondary School alumni association’s initiative to support needy students at their former school is a shining example of the power of community and the impact that individuals can have when they come together to support a common cause. Their generosity and commitment to giving back to their alma mater are an inspiration to us all, and a reminder of the importance of supporting the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB) is closing payments for examinations on Dec 31 for MSCE, JCE and PSLCE.
