And the profession becomes more exciting when some passionate teachers such a Shumilae Makalani, from Big John’s Primary School in Njewa, Lilongwe, become innovative to create solutions for needy students. The 33-yeard-old embarked on an initiative to provide free teaching and mentorship lessons to needy students who cannot afford private tuition. Shumilae offers remedial lessons in almost all nine primary school subjects; Bible Knowledge, Chichewa, English, Expressive Arts, Life Skills, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Social and Environmental Sciences.
Her main responsibility is to help needy learners by improving their academic performance, understanding and developing self-confidence. Shumilae’s free teaching services also benefit learners from surrounding schools. “My inspiration and passion to offer free extra lessons came from interacting with learners who are eager to succeed, but were held back by circumstances such as a lack of private tuition, school materials, menstrual hygiene challenges, school fees and unavailability of space to study,” she said.
Having witnessed this gap, Shumilae felt compelled to help through free remedial, enrichment lessons and support whenever possible, so that no child is left behind. Currently, about 36 learners (21 girls and 15 boys) are benefiting from her material and remedial support. Shumilae also provides accommodation to some learners.
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“I am a private tutor for both online and home calls, but I still have the urge to reach out to every child regardless of their financial and social status. It is this desire that birthed my vision to provide a stable and nurturing space at my home for the students, where learners can concentrate on their studies, receive guidance and grow holistically. Through this, I hope to support learners academically, emotionally and socially,” she said.
According to Shumilae, education plays a vital role as it equips children with knowledge, life skills and hope for the future. She said education helps children to internalise ideas, discover their talents and potential, make informed decisions and become responsible members of society.
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