A 16-year-old girl who is the only female candidate sitting this year’s Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE) examinations at Mangale Primary School in Mangochi has captured the nation’s attention.
Duwana is the only female candidate among the school’s PSLCE class after other girls dropped out over the years due to challenges including teenage pregnancies, early marriages and poverty.
Speaking to the local media, Mangale Primary School head teacher Boniface Gomiwa described her as a hardworking learner who has remained committed to her studies despite financial hardships and long distances to school.
“She is a determined learner. We are confident that she has the potential to go far with her education,” said Gomiwa.
He also dismissed social media claims that the school has not produced female PSLCE candidates since 2017, saying girls have sat the examinations every year except in 2021 and 2023.
As the story spread online, many Malawians appealed for support to ensure Duwana continues with her education.
Well-known Facebook user Tabitha Kayira urged authorities and well-wishers to secure a quality secondary school for the learner, describing her as a role model who deserves an opportunity to fulfil her potential.
The calls have already attracted a positive response, as Maranatha Girls Academy has reportedly offered Duwana a scholarship.
According to the academy’s director, Ernest Kaonga, the scholarship includes K500,000 in pocket money per term, easing the financial burden that often forces vulnerable learners out of school.
Duwana is the only female candidate among the school’s PSLCE class after other girls dropped out over the years due to challenges including teenage pregnancies, early marriages and poverty.
Speaking to the local media, Mangale Primary School head teacher Boniface Gomiwa described her as a hardworking learner who has remained committed to her studies despite financial hardships and long distances to school.
“She is a determined learner. We are confident that she has the potential to go far with her education,” said Gomiwa.
He also dismissed social media claims that the school has not produced female PSLCE candidates since 2017, saying girls have sat the examinations every year except in 2021 and 2023.
As the story spread online, many Malawians appealed for support to ensure Duwana continues with her education.
Well-known Facebook user Tabitha Kayira urged authorities and well-wishers to secure a quality secondary school for the learner, describing her as a role model who deserves an opportunity to fulfil her potential.
The calls have already attracted a positive response, as Maranatha Girls Academy has reportedly offered Duwana a scholarship.
According to the academy’s director, Ernest Kaonga, the scholarship includes K500,000 in pocket money per term, easing the financial burden that often forces vulnerable learners out of school.
