Former Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament Aisha Mambo Adams has taken Duwana Muhammad into her family after visiting the girl’s village in Mangochi together with National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) Chief Executive Officer Rhoda Gadama Misomali.
The visit, which took place today, gave Duwana an opportunity to meet with her parents before leaving for Lilongwe, where she will stay with Mambo as she continues her secondary education.
Duwana, from Mangochi is the only girl at Mangale Primary School to sit for this year’s Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE) examinations.
Her story came to light at the National Youth Summit organised by NYCOM in Lilongwe, where she spoke about the challenges she has faced and difficulties affecting girls’ access to and retention in education.
After hearing her story, Mambo who is also Member of Parliament for Mangochi Nkungula, said her family agreed to take Duwana in and provide the support she needs.
“It’s true, I am with her as we speak. We have just finished our family meeting. The agenda was to welcome her into our family. Duwana is now part of our family,” said Mambo.
She said the family will support Duwana both at school and when she is at home during holidays.
“As you know, education is not only about being in class. We also want to support her at home during holidays and give her a conducive environment for her education,” she said.
Mambo said she is hopeful that the support will make a difference in Duwana’s life.
“We are optimistic that in a few years, Duwana will not be the same Duwana we know today. We are ready to raise her as our own,” she said.
Duwana has also secured a fully funded scholarship from Maranatha High School Academy for her secondary education.
The scholarship will enable her to continue her secondary education in Malawi, with an opportunity to pursue further studies in India in the future.
Mambo said Duwana has also received some money for her upkeep, while she will take responsibility for other needs that may arise.
“She has obtained a scholarship from Maranatha and some cash for her upkeep. But there are still other things she will need, and that is my responsibility,” she said.
Mambo has since encouraged girls to remain focused on their education and avoid peer pressure.
“My message to all girls out there is: anything is achievable. Focus on what you want, and keep praying for your dreams to come true. Education gives the assurance of financial freedom.
“Kandalama kathumba mwako kamapereka mtendere, guys. Do not be overtaken by peer pressure,” she said.
Meanwhile, Gadama Misomali has hailed Mambo for accepting to take Duwana into her family and support her education.
She said NYCOM remains committed to supporting the girl child and young people to realise their potential through education and other areas of life.
Gadama said Duwana’s story should encourage more people to support girls facing challenges in accessing education.
