Mutharika unveils education reforms to expand access and improve learning outcomes

By Adson Nthenga

Lilongwe, February 13, Mana: Government has announced measures to expand access to education and improve learning outcomes as part of its broader national development agenda.

President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika made the announcement on Friday during his State of the Nation Address to Parliament, saying his administration is committed to making basic education accessible to all children while introducing digital skills from an early age.

“Pre-primary education will prepare children for future academic success and ensure that learners are ready to thrive in a modern education system,” said President Mutharika.

He said the government will continue constructing primary schools under the Malawi Education Reform Programme with support from the Global Partnership for Education, aiming to reduce classroom shortages and improve access to learning facilities.

The President noted that free tuition in public secondary schools, excluding boarding fees, has eased financial burdens on parents.

“As a result, more than 1,800 learners who had dropped out of school due to financial constraints have already returned,” he said.

On higher education, Mutharika said resources will be allocated in the 2026/27 financial year to complete stalled infrastructure at Mombera University, while the student loan programme will be expanded from 32,480 to 38,000 beneficiaries.

“No deserving Malawian should be denied access to university education because of lack of resources,” he added.

The President stressed that sustained investment in education is critical for national development, noting that a skilled and educated population is key to economic recovery and long-term growth.

Government officials said these interventions are expected to improve learning outcomes, equip students with marketable skills, and increase the overall quality of Malawi’s education system.