FEDOMA urges government to protect learners with disabilities as free secondary education begins

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

● Confusion over boarding fees sparks criticism of government communication

The Federation of Disability Organizations in Malawi (FEDOMA) has called on the government to place greater emphasis on learners with disabilities as the free public secondary school education policy takes effect to ensure that the initiative does not disadvantage vulnerable students.

In an interview, FEDOMA Executive Director, Symon Munde said that while free secondary education is a positive step, it may create challenges that undermine the right to education for learners with disabilities if not carefully implemented.

Munde explained that students with disabilities often face barriers such as discrimination and a lack of appropriate learning materials, challenges that are already widespread in many public secondary schools.

He warned that without targeted support, the new policy could unintentionally increase pressure on learners with disabilities, making it harder for them to benefit equally from the education system.

Despite these concerns, Munde commended the government for introducing free secondary education, saying the policy will expand access to education for many learners who previously could not afford school fees.

In a separate interview, governance and social affairs commentator, Linda Kunthembwe has criticized the government for failing to clearly explain what the suspension of school fees in secondary schools actually entails.

Kunthembwe said the lack of clarity has caused confusion among parents, especially as many boarding secondary schools are now asking parents to pay accommodation and meal fees ahead of the reopening of schools on 5 January.

This is despite the government having earlier announced that secondary school education would be free this year.

According to Kunthembwe, the government did not adequately explain that the policy applies only to tuition fees, leading many parents to believe that all secondary school-related costs had been abolished.

She said the confusion has resulted in misunderstandings, particularly among parents with children in boarding schools, who are now being asked to pay for boarding and food.

Kunthembwe further alleged that the situation appears deliberate, arguing that authorities were aware the public would focus on the announcement of free education and overlook other costs associated with boarding.

Adding to the debate, education expert Foster Lungu has urged the government to improve how it communicates education policies.

Lungu said that instead of relying solely on verbal announcements, the government should issue clear, written guidelines explaining new policies in detail to avoid misunderstandings and public confusion.

He emphasized that proper communication is essential to ensure education reforms are understood and implemented fairly across the country.