Minister of Education Science and Technology Bright Msaka has been hailed for his vision of making education more relevant to the needs and environment of Malawian young people.
The commendation follows a meeting between Msaka and Dr Mathias Cyamukungu, a space scientist working with G-HiTech Industries to promote innovative energy solutions for schools in Malawi.
Cyamukungu said he was impressed by Msaka’s vision of ensuring that the education of young people responds to challenges and opportunities within their communities.
“Your vision on education of youth to what is relevant in their environment is shared by G-HiTech Industries fellows who undertook research for energy solutions suitable for our sunny Africa,” Cyamukungu told Msaka.
He further wished the Minister well in his efforts to advance education in the country.
Cyamukungu’s work comes against the backdrop of efforts to improve access to electricity in schools through renewable energy.
In March last year, the Belgian government announced an investment of €700,000 towards the installation of solar-powered electricity in 45 secondary schools across Malawi.
The initiative, implemented through the Belgium-funded Electrical Energy from Schools (B-EES) project by G-HiTech Industries, is aimed at improving access to reliable electricity for both learners and teachers.
During the launch of one of the projects at Kaungwe Community Day School in Dowa, Belgian Ambassador to Malawi Peter Huyghebaert said the initiative was in line with Malawi’s national energy compact and efforts to expand renewable energy access.
The project also includes an oil-pressing component designed to provide income-generating opportunities for communities around beneficiary schools.
The development has been viewed as an example of how education, science, renewable energy and community development can be brought together to improve learning conditions for Malawian learners.
