BEFIT to improve learning outcomes - Headteacher

By Michael Martin/Malawi//

Headteacher for Gwengere Primary School in Dedza, Sandram Nachiola says the coming in of Building Education Foundation Through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) programme at their school would contribute to an educated community as more learners will have strong educational foundational skills contributing to their success throughout their academic journey.

He made the remarks on Thursday at the end of a two-day teacher training on the BEFIT programme ahead of the rolling out of the programme at their school.

Nachiola expressed optimism that once rolled out, the tablet based learning will help in reducing learning poverty as it will enable Standard 1-4 learners acquire literacy and numeracy skills.

“With this programme, we are expecting to witness retention of those who dropped out of school since they will get attracted by the tablets. Cases of absenteeism will also be dealt with as learners will not want to miss the tablets,” he said.

The headteacher said as a leader, he will ensure the technology-based learning is fully embraced by all teachers.

He applauded Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education through the BEFIT programme for training all the teachers at the school, arguing if a designated teacher is absent, any teachers will be able to handle the lessons for that day.

Ministry of Education Public Relations Officer, Mphatso Nkuonera said government remains committed to reducing learning poverty hence the rolling out of BEFIT programme throughout the country with a target of reaching all 6000 public schools by 2029.

He said already, in school where BEFIT is running, cases of absenteeism have reduced and there is an improvement in literacy and numeracy levels among learners who are now used to an interactive tablet-based learning. He said schools like Gwengere are expected to experience the same.