Mianga Primary School Renovation Inspire 14-Year-old Mercy to Dream Big

By Trinity Kubalasa.

Communications and External Engagement Manager, World Vision Malawi.

For 14-year-old Mercy, the dream of becoming the first female soldier from her village is no longer just a distant hope. A Standard 7 learner, she now sits in a classroom where lessons continue uninterrupted even when the rains come. This was not the case just a year ago.

A Harsh Learning Environment

Before 2024, Mercy and her peers at Mianga Primary School in Chibisa village, Sub TA Tamani in Phalombe district endured a harsh learning environment. Dilapidated, leaking roofs turned classrooms into pools of water, forcing lessons to stop whenever it rained. The falling tiles from weak roofing structures posed a serious danger to learners. Many children, discouraged by the conditions, dropped out.

The beginning of a new Chapter  for Mianga Primary

Thanks to World Vision Malawi, Mianga Primary School has undergone a remarkable transformation. Four school blocks, each with two classrooms, have been rehabilitated, ensuring safe and conducive learning spaces. The impact is evident  as classes now proceed smoothly, even in bad weather, and more children are enrolling since the renovation.

Children’s Hope Restored

"Before, it was hard to concentrate because we were always afraid the roof might fall on us, and when it rained, we would get soaked and be sent home," says Mercy. "Now, we can learn without fear. This has given us, especially girls, the confidence to stay in school and aim higher. I want to be a soldier, and I know education is the key to achieving that."

Duncan, a 16-year-old Standard 6 learner, shares the same appreciation. He recalls how frustrating it was when heavy rains disrupted learning. Today, he attends school with renewed enthusiasm, knowing that his education will no longer be at the mercy of the weather.

A School Reborn, A Community Inspired

Teachers have also seen a significant shift. Frank Baton – a Standard 8 teacher who has taught at the school for three years, highlights the positive changes. “Enrolment has increased from around 1,200 to 1,600 learners. The renovations have not only improved safety but also given the school a facelift. Parents are now more confident to send their children here,” he explains.

For girls like Mercy, the improvements go beyond infrastructure.

 "Many girls used to miss school or drop out because of the bad learning conditions. Now, we feel valued, and we can dream of bright futures without being left behind," she says proudly.

A Foundation for Dreams

Mianga Primary School’s transformation is a clear example of how investment in education infrastructure can change lives. Mercy’s dream of becoming a soldier and protecting her country is now built on a strong foundation of quality education. The success of this project should inspire more interventions in other underserved schools, ensuring that every Malawian child gets the education they deserve.

As Mercy marches towards her goal, she carries with her the hope of her village and a testament to the power of a supportive learning environment. Her story is not just one of resilience – it is proof that when communities and organisations come together, the future of Malawi’s children can be secured, one classroom at a time.