Malawi Pushes to Expand Digital Learning in Primary Schools

By Burnett Munthali………..

Director of Education and Sports in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Sophie Mthiko, has called on development partners and stakeholders to support the expansion of the Building Education Foundations through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) Programme to more primary schools across Malawi.

Mthiko made the remarks in Lilongwe during the BEFIT District Open Day, where she noted that only 51 out of 261 primary schools in Lilongwe Rural West are currently benefiting from the initiative.

She said the limited coverage highlights the urgent need for increased investment and collaboration to ensure more learners gain access to digital learning opportunities.

Lilongwe District Council Chairperson Sekelani Kansikili described the programme as timely and essential in an increasingly technology-driven world. He said BEFIT is helping learners acquire basic computer knowledge while also improving numeracy and literacy skills.

Kansikili added that introducing technology at primary school level is critical in preparing learners for the demands of the modern world.

An education technician at Mpingu Primary School, Chimwemwe Maleta, also praised the programme, describing it as transformative in improving the learning experience for pupils through the use of modern technology.

The BEFIT initiative is regarded as a key step in bridging the digital divide in Malawi’s education sector by equipping learners with digital skills and strengthening foundational learning.

As the country works towards improving the quality of education, stakeholders say continued support for programmes such as BEFIT will be crucial in ensuring equitable access to digital learning across all regions of Malawi.